Question with boldness even the existence of a God; because, if there be one, he must more approve of the homage of reason, than that of blind-folded fear.

The best (remedy) I can devise would be to give future commissions to (federal) judges for six years with a re-appointability by the President with the approbation of both houses. If this would not be independence enough, I know not what would be.

The natural progress of things is for liberty to yield and government to gain ground.

The Earth is given as a common for men to labor and live in.

Freedom, the first-born of science.

I do verily believe that a single, consolidated government would become the most corrupt government on the earth.

It is time enough, for the rightful purposes of civil government, for its officers to interfere [in the propagation of religious teachings] when principles break out into overt acts against peace and good order.