249 quotes
First, because the greater the power, the more dangerous the abuse.
To speak of atrocious crime in mild language is treason to virtue.
Neither the few nor the many have a right to act merely by their will, in any matter connected with duty, trust, engagement, or obligation.
An Appeal from the New to the Old Whigs (1791)
There never was a bad man that had ability for good service.
But the concessions of the weak are the concessions of fear.
That chastity of honour which felt a stain like a wound.
Reflections on the Revolution in France (1790)
Great men are the guideposts and landmarks in the state.
Toleration is good for all, or it is good for none.
The cold neutrality of an impartial judge.
Preface to Brissot's Address (1794)
He that wrestles with us strengthens our nerves, and sharpens our skill. Our antagonist is our helper.
A great revolution is on the point of being accomplished. It is a revolution not in human affairs, but in man himself.
Letters On a Regicide Peace (1796)
Some decent regulated pre-eminence, some preference (not exclusive appropriation) given to birth, is neither unnatural, nor unjust, nor impolite.
He that accuses all mankind of corruption ought to remember that he is sure to convict only one.
Without all doubt, charity to the poor is a direct and obligatory duty upon all Christians.
Thoughts and Details on Scarcity (1795)
The true danger is when liberty is nibbled away, for expedients, and by parts.
One that confounds good and evil is an enemy to the good.
Resolved to die in the last dyke of prevarication.
Old religious factions are volcanoes burnt out.
But his unbiased opinion, his mature judgment, his enlightened conscience, he ought not to sacrifice to you, to any man, or to any set of men living.
If we command our wealth, we shall be rich and free; if our wealth commands us, we are poor indeed.
Letters On a Regicide Peace (1796)