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

May 1, 2025
Capitalism, as an institutional arrangement, has been singularly devoid of plausible myths.
December 18, 2025
When people are free to do as they please, they usually imitate each other.
April 18, 2025
Politics offers yesterday’s answers to today’s questions.
Page 43 of 122