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Perceiving the order of nature to be that individual…

“Perceiving the order of nature to be that individual happiness shall be inseparable from the practice of virtue, I am willing to hope it may have ordained that the fall of the wicked shall be the rise of the good. To J. Correa de Serra, Monticello, Apr. 19, 1814” quote by Thomas Jefferson
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““Perceiving the order of nature to be that individual happiness shall be inseparable from the practice of virtue, I am willing to hope it may have ordained that the fall of the wicked shall be the rise of the good. To J. Correa de Serra, Monticello, Apr. 19, 1814””

Thomas Jefferson

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The passage links personal fulfillment to moral conduct, suggesting that justice will eventually reward virtue and punish vice.

In simple terms: Virtue leads to happiness; wickedness yields downfall.

Key Takeaway

Moral order underpins well‑being.

Themes

ethics justice human nature hope moral causality

Mood

hopeful reflective determined

Type

philosophical historical moral

When to use this quote

  • seeking personal growth
  • evaluating societal fairness
  • reflecting on historical events

Key Concepts

virtue ethics teleology moral optimism

Practical Applications

  • guiding ethical decision‑making
  • inspiring social reform

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does this view of moral causality hold up in modern societies?
  • Can personal happiness be truly separated from ethical behavior?
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