Bases Quote by Thomas Jefferson
“It can never be too often repeated, that the time for fixing every essential right on a legal basis is while our rulers are honest, and ourselves united.”
About This Quote
Source Letter: Thomas Jefferson to James Madison, 1790
Legal reforms must be pursued while leaders are honest and citizens united.
In simple terms: Reforms need honest leaders and unity.
Key Takeaway
Act on rights before corruption grows.
Themes
politics
law
integrity
Mood
cautious
optimistic
Type
historical
political
When to use this quote
- legislative action
- public trust
- civic unity
Key Concepts
social contract
good governance
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies ensure leader honesty?
- What unites citizens for reform?
A Different Perspective
Corruption can derail reforms.
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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)
