"I have always been of the opinion, that the best way to promote knowledge, is to communicate our discoveries to others."

"I have endeavored to write not for the learned only, but for all ingenious persons."

"I once kept a viper in a sealed glass jar until it died, to observe the effects of air deprivation."

"I have always looked upon the study of nature as a kind of religious duty."

"It is a sin to believe that God has forbidden us to examine His creation."