Alarms Quote by Thomas Jefferson
“Lay down true principles and adhere to them inflexibly. Do not be frightened into their surrender by the alarms of the timid, or the croakings of wealth against the ascendency of the people.”
About This Quote
Source Letter: to James Madison, 1785
Firm adherence to principles resists pressure from fear or wealth, protecting the people’s interests.
In simple terms: Stick to principles despite fear or money.
Key Takeaway
Uphold core values steadfastly.
Themes
principles
integrity
politics
power
people
Mood
determined
serious
Type
political
ethical
When to use this quote
- political speeches
- activism
- policy debates
Key Concepts
ethical steadfastness
civic duty
Questions to Reflect On
- When should flexibility be considered?
- How to balance principle and pragmatism?
A Different Perspective
Rigid adherence may ignore necessary compromise.
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