Ministers of the Gospel are excluded [from serving as…
“Ministers of the Gospel are excluded [from serving as Visitors of the county Elementary Schools] to avoid jealousy from the other sects, were the public education committed to the ministers of a particular one; and with more reason than in the case of their exclusion from the legislative and executive functions.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Jefferson argues that appointing ministers as school visitors would cause sectarian jealousy and bias in public education.
In simple terms: Avoiding religious bias in schools is important.
Separate religious officials from public school oversight.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- school board appointments
- public school administration
- religious appointments
- policy making
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can public schools ensure neutrality?
- What safeguards prevent sectarian bias?
Religious influence may still persist informally.