Citizens Quote by Thomas Jefferson
“Time indeed changes manners and notions, and so far we must expect institutions to bend to them. But time produces also corruption of principles, and against this it is the duty of good citizens to be ever on the watch, and if the gangrene is to prevail at last, let the day be kept off as long as possible.”
About This Quote
Source Writings: Letter to John Adams, 1790
Societal norms evolve, but they can also erode core values; vigilant citizens must guard against decay.
In simple terms: Society changes, but principles can weaken; stay alert.
Key Takeaway
Monitor and protect core values.
Themes
civic duty
morality
change
watchfulness
Mood
concerned
determined
Type
political
ethical
When to use this quote
- political discourse
- community leadership
- education reform
- media criticism
Key Concepts
Republicanism
ethical decay
social evolution
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you recognize subtle moral decline?
- What actions keep institutions accountable?
A Different Perspective
Even with vigilance, entrenched interests may resist reform.
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