It is not by the consolidation or concentration of powers but by their distribution that good government is effected.

But the fact being once established, that the press is impotent when it abandons itself to falsehood, I leave to others to restore it to its strength, by recalling it within the pale of truth. Within that, it is a noble institution, equally the friend of science and of civil liberty.

If I had to choose between government and a free press, I would choose a free press.

Democracy is 51% of the people taking away the rights of the other 49%.

Difference of opinion leads to inquiry, and inquiry to the truth.

Health is worth more than learning.

The future inhabitants of [both] the Atlantic and Mississippi states will be our sons. We think we see their happiness in their union, and we wish it. Events may prove otherwise; and if they see their interest in separating why should we take sides? God bless them both, and keep them in union if it be for their good, but separate them if it be better.