Able Quote by Thomas Jefferson
“The functionaries of every government have propensities to command at will the liberty and property of their constituents. There is no safe deposit for these but with the people themselves, nor can they be safe with them without information. Where the press is free, and every man able to read, all is safe.”
About This Quote
Source Letter: to James Madison, 1790
Free press and informed citizens protect liberty; without information, people are vulnerable to government overreach.
In simple terms: Informed citizens guard freedom.
Key Takeaway
Support free media and education.
Themes
freedom
information
government
Mood
concerned
optimistic
Type
political
educational
When to use this quote
- voting
- journalism
- public policy
- community meetings
Key Concepts
democracy
civic responsibility
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you verify information?
- What role can you play in civic education?
A Different Perspective
Even with a free press, misinformation can spread.
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