I am entirely persuaded that the agitations of the public mind advance its powers, and that at every vibration between the points of liberty and despotism, something will be gained for the former. As men become better informed, their rulers must respect them the more.

I am sure that in estimating every man's value either in private or public life, a pure integrity is the quality we take first into calculation, and that learning and talents are only the second.

I tolerate with the utmost latitude the right of others to differ from me in opinion without imputing to them criminality.

To unequal privileges among members of the same society the spirit of our nation is, with one accord, adverse.

The dead should not rule the living

An enlightened citizenry is indispensable for the proper functioning of a republic. Self-government is not possible unless the citizens are educated sufficiently to enable them to exercise oversight. It is therefore imperative that the nation see to it that a suitable education be provided for all its citizens.

When the people are afraid of the government, that's tyranny. But when the government is afraid of the people, that's liberty.