Adversity Quote by Thomas Jefferson
“A departure from principle in one instance becomes a precedent for a second; that second for a third; and so on, till the bulk of the society is reduced to be mere automatons of misery, to have no sensibilities left but for sin and suffering.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Notes on the State of Virginia, 1785
A single breach of principle can set a chain reaction, leading society to lose moral sensitivity and become enslaved to misery.
In simple terms: Breaking one rule can erode values and lead to oppression.
Key Takeaway
Guard principles to prevent systemic decay.
Themes
ethics
societal decay
morality
authority
consequences
Mood
cautionary
serious
reflective
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- government policy
- corporate governance
- education standards
- legal reforms
Key Concepts
principle
precedent
automation
misery
Questions to Reflect On
- What principle are you willing to defend today?
- How does one breach affect collective values?
A Different Perspective
Even strong institutions can still succumb if vigilance wanes.
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![“Single acts of tyranny may be ascribed to the accidental opinion of a day; but a series of oppressions, begun at a distinguished period and pursued unalterably through every change of ministers, too plainly prove a deliberate, systematic plan of reducing [a people] to slavery.” quote by Thomas Jefferson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/00c/thomas-jefferson-43_change_single-acts-of-tyranny-may-be-ascribed-t_5515.jpg)
![“Though you cannot see, when you take one step, what will be the next, yet follow truth, justice, and plain dealing, and never fear their leading you out of [any difficult situation] in the easiest manner possible...” quote by Thomas Jefferson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ebe/thomas-jefferson-43_difficult_though-you-cannot-see-when-you-take-one_9828.jpg)
