To compel a man to furnish contributions of money for the propagation of opinions which he disbelieves and abhors, is sinful and tyrannical; . . . even the forcing him to support this or that teacher of his own religious persuasion, is depriving him of the comfortable liberty of giving his contributions to the particular pastor whose morals he would make his pattern. . . .
Thomas JeffersonThe world is indebted for all triumphs which have been gained by reason and humanity over error and oppression.
Thomas JeffersonIf we can but prevent the government from wasting the labours of the people, under the pretence of taking care of them, they must become happy.
Thomas Jeffersonnot to find out new principles, or new arguments, never before thought of . . . but to place before mankind the common sense of the subject, in terms so plain and firm as to command their assent, and to justify ourselves in the independent stand we are compelled to take.
Thomas Jefferson