Skip to content

Truth Quote by Thomas Jefferson

“Truth is great and will prevail if left to herself, that she is the proper and sufficient antagonist to error, and has nothing to fear from the conflict, unless by human interposition disarmed of her natural weapons, free argument and debate; errors ceasing to be dangerous when it is permitted…” quote by Thomas Jefferson
Download Open image
““Truth is great and will prevail if left to herself, that she is the proper and sufficient antagonist to error, and has nothing to fear from the conflict, unless by human interposition disarmed of her natural weapons, free argument and debate; errors ceasing to be dangerous when it is permitted freely to contradict them.””

Thomas Jefferson

About This Quote

Source Letter: Correspondence on truth and debate, 1790

He claims truth naturally defeats error when free argument is allowed, and only human interference can hinder this process.

In simple terms: Truth wins through open debate.

Key Takeaway

Protect free discourse to let truth prevail.

Themes

truth debate freedom of speech

Mood

reflective analytical

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • courtrooms
  • academic forums
  • public policy debates
  • media analysis

Key Concepts

philosophy logic political theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can societies ensure arguments argument?
  • What role does media play in protecting truth?
A Different Perspective

Power structures may suppress dissenting voices.

2.1 out of 5 (8 ratings)

More by Thomas Jefferson

Explore all 2,098 Thomas Jefferson quotes

More Truth quotes

Browse all 45,114 Truth quotes