Capable Quote by Thomas Jefferson
“No one, I hope, can doubt my wish to see... all mankind exercising self-government, and capable of exercising it. But the question is not what we wish, but what is practicable.”
About This Quote
Source Letter: Thomas Jefferson to James Madison, 1787
Self‑government is desirable, but practicality limits what societies can achieve.
In simple terms: Idealism meets practicality.
Key Takeaway
Balance ideals with feasible actions.
Themes
politics
idealism
pragmatism
Mood
thoughtful
strategic
Type
prescriptive
analytical
When to use this quote
- policy drafting
- civic education
- community organizing
Key Concepts
self‑governance
feasibility
Questions to Reflect On
- What practical steps enable self‑government?
- When should compromise be accepted?
A Different Perspective
Ideal goals may be unrealistic.
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![“[The Community's] crosses and trials give me confidence. But I derive my hope above all, and most especially, from our utter incapacity, for it is always upon nothingness that God is pleased to rear His works. If at any day we accomplish some good here, the glory will certainly be His alone, since…” quote by Theodore Guerin](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/2b8/theodore-guerin-54729_accomplish_the-community-s-crosses-and-trials-give_7176.jpg)
