If thou canst see sharp, look and judge wisely, says the philosopher. Book VIII

The art of not reading is a very important one. It consists in not taking an interest in whatever may be engaging the attention of the general public at any particular time. When some political or ecclesiastical pamphlet, or novel, or poem is making a great commotion, you should remember that he who writes for fools always finds a large public. A precondition for reading good books is not reading bad ones: for life is short.” Essays and Aphorisms

“The temperament and character traits we have inherited affect our behavior, a process already begun at the genetic stage.” Surrounded by Idiots

“Have you never observed how invincible and unconquerable is spirit and how the presence of it makes the soul of any creature to be absolutely fearless and indomitable?” Republic