In order to improve the mind, 

we ought less to learn, 

than to contemplate.

Nothing is more fairly distributed than common sense: 

no one thinks he needs more of it than he already has.

When it is not in our power to follow what is true, 

we ought to follow what is most probable.

It is not enough to have a good mind; 

the main thing is to use it well.

If you would be a real seeker after truth, 

it is necessary that at least once in your life 

you doubt, as far as possible, all things.

The reading of all good books 

is like a conversation 

with the finest minds 

of past centuries.