Quotes about Independence

The German is like the slave who, without chains, obeys his masters merest word, his very glance. The condition of servitude is inherent in him, in his very soul and worse than the physical is the spiritual slavery. The Germans must be set free from wit

The same fact that Boccaccio offers in support of religion might be adduced in behalf of a republic: It exists in spite of its ministers."

To be a philosopher is not merely to have subtle thoughts, nor even to found a school, but to so love wisdom as to live according to its dictates a life of simplicity, independence, magnanimity and trust

I quietly declare war with the State, after my fashion, though I will still make use and get advantage of her as I can, as is usual in such cases.

I was not designed to be forced. I will breathe after my own fashion. Let us see who is the strongest.

Any man more right than his neighbors constitutes a majority of one.

A simple and independent mind does not toil at the bidding of any prince.

If a man does not keep pace with his companions, perhaps it is because he hears a different drummer. Let him step to the music he hears, however measured or far away.

I would rather sit on a pumpkin, and have it all to myself, than be crowded on a velvet cushion.

If money is your hope for independence, you will never have it. The only real security that a man can have in this world is a reserve of knowledge, experience and ability.

A man's true state of power and riches is to be in himself.

Don't let someone else's opinion of you become your reality.