Voltaire
Voltaire (François‑Marie Arouet, 1694–1778) was a French Enlightenment writer, philosopher, and historian known for his wit, advocacy of civil liberties, religious tolerance, and critiques of authority. His prolific works, including Candide, and extensive correspondence influenced European intellectual life; the line 'To hold a pen is to be at war' reflects his confrontational use of writing.
Quotes by Voltaire
Quotes: 12

Finding Joy Amidst Adversity – Voltaire on Endurance and Hope
Choosing to ‘sing’ rather than despair reflects the power of perspective in shaping our experiences. [...]
Created on: 4/21/2025

Every Man Is Guilty of All the Good He Did Not Do — Voltaire
According to Voltaire, failing to do good deeds is itself a form of guilt or wrongdoing, highlighting the consequences of inaction. [...]
Created on: 4/18/2025

The Heart is the Leading Force of All Your Thoughts - Voltaire
Voltaire uses the heart as a metaphor for passion and inner drive, highlighting its role as a central force that shapes our reasoning and perspectives. [...]
Created on: 1/2/2025

Dare to Be Happy - Voltaire
This quote challenges individuals to overcome fear and societal expectations that may prevent them from pursuing happiness. It highlights that being happy often requires bravery. [...]
Created on: 12/7/2024

Doubt Is an Uncomfortable Condition, but Certainty Is a Ridiculous One - Voltaire
This quote acknowledges that doubt can be an unpleasant and unsettling experience. It represents the discomfort of uncertainty and the challenges of questioning beliefs or seeking answers. [...]
Created on: 11/21/2024

It Is Not Enough to Conquer; One Must Learn to Seduce - Voltaire
Voltaire, an Enlightenment thinker known for his wit and criticism of societal norms, encourages a perspective that values intellect and emotional engagement over mere acquisition or victory. [...]
Created on: 9/10/2024

The More I Read, The More I Acquire, The More Certain I Am That I Know Nothing - Voltaire
The quote emphasizes the importance of intellectual curiosity and the importance of continuous learning. It encourages individuals to seek knowledge while understanding that each discovery often leads to more questions. [...]
Created on: 8/26/2024