Power always thinks it has a great soul and vast views beyond the comprehension of the weak. – John Adams
Liberty, according to my metaphysics is a self-determining power in an intellectual agent. It implies thought and choice and power. – John Adams
The essence of a free government consists in an effectual control of rivalries. – John Adams
When people talk of the freedom of writing, speaking or thinking I cannot choose but laugh. No such thing ever existed. No such thing now exists but I hope it will exist. But it must be hundreds of years after you and I shall write and speak no more. – John Adams