The first object of human association [is] the full improvement of their condition.

I view great cities as pestilential to the morals, the health and the liberties of man. True, they nourish some of the elegant arts; but the useful ones can thrive elsewhere; and less perfection in the others, with more health, virtue and freedom, would be my choice.

If I could not go to Heaven but with a party, I would not go there at all.

No knowledge can be more satisfactory to a man than that of his own frame, its parts, their functions and actions.

I believe that banking institutions are more dangerous to our liberties than standing armies. Already they have raised up a moneyed aristocracy that has set the Government at defiance. The issuing power should be taken from the banks and restored to the people to whom it properly belongs.

No man shall be compelled to frequent or support any religious worship, place, or ministry whatsoever.

It is in the love of one's family only that heartfelt happiness is known.