A room without books is like a life without meaning.

The happiest moments my heart knows are those in which it is pouring forth its affections to a few esteemed characters.

The benefit of even limited monopolies is too doubtful, to be opposed to that of their general suppression.

Whenever any form of government becomes destructive of these ends [life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness] it is the right of the people to alter or abolish it, and to institute new government.

When a man assumes a public trust he should consider himself a public property.

Hemp is of first necessity to the wealth & protection of the country.

Civil officials have no business meddling in private religious affairs.