Leo Strauss

Philosophy is the queen of the sciences, but it rules without force.

In a witty remark: 'The modern liberal is like a man who wants to eat his cake and have it too—indefinitely.'

The Republic shows that justice is possible only in speech.

Revelation and reason are not enemies, but rivals.

The philosopher lives in the tension between the city and the cave.

In a letter: 'My dear friend, the truth is hidden, but it shines for those who seek.'

Modernity's progress is a regression from the classics.

The art of writing conceals as much as it reveals.

To live philosophically is to question everything, including oneself.

Maimonides wrote for the wise, not the multitude.

In an interview: 'Strauss never said that, but if he did, it would be profound.'

The end of history is the end of philosophy's task.

Plato's dialogues are dramas of the soul.

The just regime is the one that allows philosophy to flourish.

In a personal reflection: 'Aging brings clarity, not regret.'

Farabi's silence on politics speaks volumes.

The modern state is Leviathan reborn.

Wisdom is the knowledge of ignorance.

In a speech: 'Beware the philosopher-king; he is rare and dangerous.'

The quarrel between philosophy and poetry is eternal.