Entering Quote by Thomas Jefferson
“The idea is quite unfounded that on entering into society we give up any natural rights.”
About This Quote
Source Letter: to James Madison, 1787
He argues that joining society does not require surrendering inherent natural rights.
In simple terms: Society shouldn't strip natural rights.
Key Takeaway
Defend natural rights in civic life.
Themes
rights
society
individualism
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- voting
- civil protest
- legal challenges
Key Concepts
natural law
political philosophy
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you think society can truly respect natural rights?
- What safeguards protect them?
A Different Perspective
Rights can be contested by governments.
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![“Single acts of tyranny may be ascribed to the accidental opinion of a day; but a series of oppressions, begun at a distinguished period and pursued unalterably through every change of ministers, too plainly prove a deliberate, systematic plan of reducing [a people] to slavery.” quote by Thomas Jefferson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/00c/thomas-jefferson-43_change_single-acts-of-tyranny-may-be-ascribed-t_5515.jpg)
![“Though you cannot see, when you take one step, what will be the next, yet follow truth, justice, and plain dealing, and never fear their leading you out of [any difficult situation] in the easiest manner possible...” quote by Thomas Jefferson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ebe/thomas-jefferson-43_difficult_though-you-cannot-see-when-you-take-one_9828.jpg)
