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

December 27, 2025
00:51
Democracy means government by discussion, but it is only effective if you can stop people talking.
April 23, 2025
If you can talk brilliantly about a problem, it can create the consoling illusion that it has been mastered.
February 8, 2025
The main advantage of being famous is that when you bore people at dinner they think it is their fault.
Page 30 of 122