American polymath, a leading writer, scientist, inventor, statesman, diplomat, printer, publisher, and political philosopher
If you would be loved, love, and be loveable.
Without freedom of thought, there can be no such thing as wisdom - and no such thing as public liberty without freedom of speech.
The doorstep to the temple of wisdom is a knowledge of our own ignorance.
There are three faithful friends - an old wife, an old dog, and ready money.
The doors of wisdom are never shut.
When in doubt, don't.
Honesty is the best policy.
Dost thou love life? Then do not squander time, for that is the stuff life is made of.
Those who govern, having much business on their hands, do not generally like to take the trouble of considering and carrying into execution new projects. The best public measures are therefore seldom adopted from previous wisdom, but forced by the occasion.
Be at war with your vices, at peace with your neighbors, and let every new year find you a better man.