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Should look forward to a time, and that not a distant one…

“Should look forward to a time, and that not a distant one, when corruption in this, as in the country from which we derive our origin, will have seized the heads of government, and be spread by them through the body of the people; when they will purchase the voices of the people, and make them pay…” quote by Thomas Jefferson
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“Should look forward to a time, and that not a distant one, when corruption in this, as in the country from which we derive our origin, will have seized the heads of government, and be spread by them through the body of the people; when they will purchase the voices of the people, and make them pay the price.”

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.

Corruption will eventually dominate government and exploit citizens, silencing public voice and imposing costs.

In simple terms: Corruption will seize power and oppress people.

Key Takeaway

Guard against corruption and demand accountability.

Themes

politics corruption power citizen rights accountability

Mood

cautious critical

Type

political warning

When to use this quote

  • elections
  • policy making
  • civic engagement
  • media scrutiny

Key Concepts

ethical decay political manipulation public trust

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can citizens detect early signs of corruption?
  • What safeguards protect democratic governance?
A Different Perspective

Corruption may be resisted by strong institutions and public vigilance.

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