"I place economy among the first and important virtues, and public debt as the greatest of dangers. To preserve our independence, we must not let our rulers load us with perpetual debt. We must make our choice between economy and liberty, or profusion and servitude. If we can prevent the government from wasting the labours of the people under the pretense of caring for them, they will be happy." Thomas Jefferson
This qoute sums up alot, IMHO.
Whaddaya think?
2007-03-07 13:01:24 · 7 answers · asked by Anonymous in Politics & Government ➔ Politics
When I first read this, I took it one way. Reading it again, I predict both parties will think it applies to the other...
Interesting.
2007-03-07 13:11:44 · update #1
Ah, Jefferson. He was a great "classical liberal" or, as we call it now, a libertarian. A small-government man, and my favorite founding father. Too bad the country has lost its way from the path he envisioned...
2007-03-07 13:48:33 · answer #1 · answered by wrathinif 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I like this one:
"I hold it that a little rebellion now and then is a good thing,
and as necessary in the political world as storms in the physical.
Unsuccessful rebellions, indeed, generally establish the
encroachments on the rights of the people which have produced them.
An observation of this truth should render honest republican
governors so mild in their punishment of rebellions as not to
discourage them too much. It is a medicine necessary for the
sound health of the government."
2007-03-07 21:04:02 · answer #2 · answered by Longhaired Freaky Person 4 · 2⤊ 1⤋
I'm not so sure it was genuine. Too many people also believe that he said "Dissent is the highest form of patriotism," but that quote was actually said by Dorothy Hewitt Hutchinson, a woman who opposed our involvement in World War 2, and the Cold War.
2007-03-07 21:12:44 · answer #3 · answered by ddey65 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I agree, completely. I think it is funny how Americans are the most wealthy, free, and prideful people on the planet. Yet the most depressed also. Wierd isnt it, debt to the ruling class has made us slaves again and we do not even know it....
2007-03-07 21:13:20 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Thomas Jefferson was a genius. He is right on with what he says. I wonder if neocons and their fearless leader know this?
2007-03-07 21:06:26 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
I think Jefferson was brilliant and that quote is terrific.
2007-03-07 21:05:34 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I'll go along with that as long as people are not second to it.
2007-03-07 21:04:51 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋