Should [reformers] attempt more than the established habits of the people are ripe for, they may lose all and retard indefinitely the ultimate object of their aim.

If NATURE has made any one thing less susceptible than all others of exclusive property, it is the action of the thinking power called an idea... No one possesses the less, because every other possess the whole of it. He who receives an idea from me, receives instruction himself without lessening mine; as he who lights his taper at mine, receives light without darkening me.

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

The human character, we believe, requires in general constant and immediate control to prevent its being biased from right by the seductions of self-love.

No one, I hope, can doubt my wish to see... all mankind exercising self-government, and capable of exercising it. But the question is not what we wish, but what is practicable.

The persons and property of our citizens are entitled to the protection of our government in all places where they may lawfully go.

If ever this vast country is brought under a single government, it will be one of the most extensive corruption.