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Dread Quote by Thomas Jefferson

“I am not myself apt to be alarmed at innovations recommended by reason. That dread belongs to those whose interests or prejudices shrink from the advance of truth and science.” quote by Thomas Jefferson
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“I am not myself apt to be alarmed at innovations recommended by reason. That dread belongs to those whose interests or prejudices shrink from the advance of truth and science.”

Thomas Jefferson

About This Quote

Source Speech: Letter to John Adams, 1790

Reasoned innovations can be unsettling, but fear is a sign of personal bias, not of truth.

In simple terms: Fear of new ideas shows personal bias.

Key Takeaway

Question your biases before dismissing progress.

Themes

bias innovation truth

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • adopting new technology
  • policy reform
  • education
  • career change

Key Concepts

psychology of fear scientific progress

Questions to Reflect On

  • What biases might you hold about new ideas?
  • How can you evaluate innovations objectively?
A Different Perspective

Fear can also stem from legitimate risks, not just bias.

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