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Every great advance in natural knowledge has involved the absolute rejection of authority.

Only a well-rounded intellect, a spirit nourished in the eternal sources of intelligence and culture, of justice and wisdom, is a safeguard against both indifference and skepticism.

In science, a healthy skepticism is a professional necessity, whereas in religion, having belief without evidence is regarded as a virtue.

Large skepticism leads to large understanding. Small skepticism leads to small understanding. No skepticism leads to no understanding.

The lack of belief is a defect that ought to be concealed when it cannot be overcome.

Let no one trust so entirely to natural prudence as to persuade himself that it will suffice to guide him without help from experience.

Skepticism is not a position that you stake out ahead of time and stick to no matter what.

It is evident that skepticism, while it makes no actual change in man, always makes him feel better.

Authority has every reason to fear the skeptic, for authority can rarely survive in the face of doubt.

Skepticism has never founded empires, established principals, or changed the world's heart. The great doers in history have always been people of faith.