We ought to consider what is the end of government, before we determine which is the best form. Upon this point all speculative politicians will agree, that the happiness of society is the end of government, as all Divines and moral Philosophers will agree that the happiness of the individual is the end of man. From this principle it will follow, that the form of government which communicates ease, comfort, security, or, in one word, happiness, to the greatest number of persons, and in the greatest degree, is the best.

Let every sluice of knowledge be opened and set a-flowing.

Fear is the foundation of most governments; but it is so sordid and brutal a passion, and renders men in whose breasts it predominates so stupid and miserable,…

Let us tenderly and kindly cherish therefore, the means of knowledge. Let us dare to read, think, speak, and write.

The best form of government is that which is most likely to prevent the greatest sum of evil.

All who are not lunatics are agreed about certain things. That it is better to be alive than dead, better to be adequately fed than starved, better to be free …

In the usual (though certainly not in every) public decision on economic policy, the choice is between courses that are almost equally good or equally bad. It …