A man is his own easiest dupe, for what he wishes to be true he generally believes to be true. – Demosthenes
You cannot have a proud and chivalrous spirit if your conduct is mean and paltry; for whatever a man’s actions are, such must be his spirit. – Demosthenes
The best protection for the people is not necessarily to believe everything people tell them. – Demosthenes
As a vessel is known by the sound, whether it be cracked or not; so men are proved, by their speeches, whether they be wise or foolish. – Demosthenes
There is one safeguard known generally to the wise, which is an advantage and security to all, but especially to democracies as against despots – suspicion. – Demosthenes
No man who is not willing to help himself has any right to apply to his friends, or to the gods. – Demosthenes