[O]ur rules can have authority over such natural rights…
![“[O]ur rules can have authority over such natural rights only as we have submitted to them. The rights of conscience we never submitted, we could not submit. We are answerable for them to our God.” quote by Thomas Jefferson](https://sms4smile.com/q/img-quotes/c72/thomas-jefferson-43_authority_o-ur-rules-can-have-authority-over-such_2895951.jpg)
“[O]ur rules can have authority over such natural rights only as we have submitted to them. The rights of conscience we never submitted, we could not submit. We are answerable for them to our God.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Asserts that natural rights, especially conscience, remain beyond governmental authority.
In simple terms: Conscience is an inviolable right.
Key Takeaway
Protect personal conscience against overreach.
Themes
natural rights
conscience
authority
Mood
analytical
principled
Type
political
ethical
When to use this quote
- law
- education
- religion
- civil discourse
Key Concepts
political philosophy
human rights
Questions to Reflect On
- How should societies safeguard conscience?
- What limits should government have?
A Different Perspective
Balancing authority and liberty is complex.