Quotes and anectdotes from the wise to the foolish, and the courageous to the drunk

Charles de Secondat Philosopher

  • Gender: Male
  • Citizenship: France
  • Born: Jan 18, 1689
  • Died: Feb 10, 1755

Charles-Louis de Secondat, Baron de La Brède et de Montesquieu, generally referred to as simply Montesquieu, was a French lawyer, man of letters, and political philosopher who lived during the Age of Enlightenment. He is famous for his articulation of the theory of separation of powers, which is implemented in many constitutions throughout the world. He did more than any other author to secure the place of the word despotism in the political lexicon, and may have been partly responsible for the popularization of the terms feudalism and Byzantine Empire.

There are three species of government: republican, monarchical, and despotic. government

When the body of the people is possessed of the supreme power, it is called a democracy. politics

People here argue about religion interminably, but it appears that they are competing at the same time to see who can be the least devout. religion

Do you think that God will punish them for not practicing a religion which he did not reveal to them? religion

As soon as man enters into a state of society he loses the sense of his weakness equality ceases, and then commences the state of war. equality

Each particular society begins to feel its strength, whence arises a state of war between different nations. strength

But constant experience shows us that every man invested with power is apt to abuse it, and to carry his authority as far as it will go. experience

Men, who are rogues individually, are in the mass very honorable people. men

Power ought to serve as a check to power. power

Society is the union of men and not the men themselves. society

Thanksgiving November 28, 2024

The thankful receiver bears a plentiful harvest. 32 other thoughts from William Blake

32 other thoughts from William Blake

Drink and be thankful to the host! What seems insignificant when you have it, is important when you need it. 6 wisdom & wit from Franz Grillparzer

6 wisdom & wit from Franz Grillparzer

For what I have received may the Lord make me truly thankful. And more truly for what I have not received. 2 quotes from Storm Jameson

2 quotes from Storm Jameson

To give thanks in solitude is enough. Thanksgiving has wings and goes where it must go. Your prayer knows much more about it than you do. 73 other views from Victor Hugo

73 other views from Victor Hugo