Chapters Quote by Thomas Jefferson
“Nothing can now be believed which is seen in a newspaper. Truth itself becomes suspicious by being put into that polluted vehicle... Perhaps an editor might begin a reformation in some such way as this. Divide his paper into four chapters, heading the 1st, Truths. 2d, Probabilities. 3d, Possibilities. 4th, Lies. The first chapter would be very short.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Letter to a newspaper editor, 1795
Media can distort truth; separating facts, probabilities, possibilities, and lies helps clarify.
In simple terms: Separate truth from speculation and falsehood.
Critically evaluate information sources.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- reading news
- researching claims
- educational curricula
- public discourse
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we apply this four‑chapter method today?
- What role do editors play in shaping truth?
Even structured categories cannot eliminate bias entirely.