Asks Quote by Thomas Jefferson
“I shall often go wrong through defect of judgment. When right, I shall often be thought wrong by those whose positions will not command a view of the whole ground. I ask your indulgence for my own errors, which will never be intentional, and your support against the errors of others, who may condemn what they would not if seen in all its parts.”
About This Quote
Source Letter: to James Madison, 1799
He admits personal judgment errors and anticipates criticism from limited perspectives, seeking understanding and support.
In simple terms: Human error and limited view.
Key Takeaway
Seek humility and broader perspective.
Themes
humility
misunderstanding
communication
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- Decision making
- public discourse
- leadership challenges
Key Concepts
Epistemology
political theory
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you recognize your own blind spots?
- What role does constructive criticism play?
A Different Perspective
May underestimate the value of dissent.
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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)
