Enemy Quote by Thomas Jefferson
“If we suffer ourselves to be frightened from our post by mere lying, surely the enemy will use that weapon; for what one so cheap to those of whose system of politics morality makes no part?”
About This Quote
Source Letter: Letter to John Adams, 1799
Deception weakens resolve and lets enemies exploit fear; truth is essential for political morality.
In simple terms: Lying makes us vulnerable to enemies.
Key Takeaway
Guard against fear, seek truth.
Themes
politics
morality
fear
deception
Mood
cautious
serious
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- campaigns
- public discourse
- policy making
Key Concepts
political strategy
psychology
ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- How does fear shape political decisions?
- What truth can counteract deception?
A Different Perspective
Truth alone may not sway entrenched power structures.
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![“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)
