Able Quote by Thomas Jefferson
“Political dissension is doubtless a less evil than the lethargy of despotism: but still it is a great evil, and it would be as worthy the efforts of the patriot as of the philosopher, to exclude its influence if possible, from social life. The good are rare enough at best. There is no reason to subdivide them by artificial lines. But whether we shall ever be able so far to perfect the principles of society as that political opinions shall, in its intercourse, be as inoffensive as those of philosophy, mechanics, or any other, may well be doubted.”
About This Quote
Source Letter: to James Madison, 1798
Warns that political dissent, while less harmful than tyranny, still poses a societal risk and should be limited.
In simple terms: Political disagreement can be dangerous and should be managed.
Key Takeaway
Balance dissent with social harmony.
Themes
politics
ethics
social order
Mood
cautious
reflective
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- legislative debates
- community meetings
- media commentary
Key Concepts
civil discourse
political philosophy
public good
Questions to Reflect On
- When should dissent be protected?
- How can societies limit harmful disagreement?
A Different Perspective
Suppressing dissent can stifle necessary reform.
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