What has been the effect of coericion [sic]? To make one…
![“What has been the effect of coericion [sic]? To make one half the world fools, and the other half hypocrites. To support roguery and errors all over the earth... [Instead] reason and persuasion are the only practicable instruments. To make way for these, free inquiry must be indulged; and how can…” quote by Thomas Jefferson](https://sms4smile.com/q/img-quotes/805/thomas-jefferson-43_earth_what-has-been-the-effect-of-coericion-si_851023.jpg)
“What has been the effect of coericion [sic]? To make one half the world fools, and the other half hypocrites. To support roguery and errors all over the earth... [Instead] reason and persuasion are the only practicable instruments. To make way for these, free inquiry must be indulged; and how can we wish others to indulge it while we refuse it ourselves.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Coercion creates division and hypocrisy; free inquiry and reason are essential for a just society.
In simple terms: Coercion divides; reason unites.
Key Takeaway
Promote reason and free inquiry.
Themes
politics
ethics
freedom of speech
Mood
thoughtful
inspiring
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- legislative debates
- educational reform
- public discourse
Key Concepts
philosophy
democracy
critical thinking
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies protect free inquiry?
- What role does reason play in resolving conflict?
A Different Perspective
Reason alone may not overcome entrenched power structures.