Quotes Library

July 4, 2025

A little rebellion now and then is a good thing.

Thomas Jefferson (1743–1826), American Democratic-Republican politician, president, letter to James Madison, 30 January 1787, Jay p.191

In respect of what current issue would a little rebellion do some good?

It is unfortunate, but understandable that every government of men or women will sooner or later overstep its brief. The threat of rebellion (or just a lot of noisy demonstrations) in response is what keeps governments in line, and if fear of that is not sufficient, there is always the courts. But that depends on the jurisdiction.


More Quotes

February 3, 2025
Revolution: n., a bursting of the boilers which usually takes place when the safety valve of public discussion is closed.
July 25, 2025
In a consumer society there are inevitably two kinds of slaves: the prisoners of addiction and the prisoners of envy.
December 18, 2025
When people are free to do as they please, they usually imitate each other.
Page 120 of 122