Quote by Thomas Jefferson
A strict observance of the written laws is doubtless one of the hi

A strict observance of the written laws is doubtless one of the high virtues of a good citizen, but it is not the highest. The laws of necessity, of self-preservation, of saving our country when in danger, are of higher obligation. – Thomas Jefferson

Other quotes by Thomas Jefferson

Sometimes it is said that man cannot be trusted with the government of himself. Can he, then be trusted with the government of others? Or have we found angels in the form of kings to govern him? Let history answer this question. – Thomas Jefferson

Category:
Government
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Whenever there are in any country uncultivated lands and unemployed poor, it is clear that the laws of property have been so far extended as to violate natural right. The earth is given as a common stock for man to labor and live on. The small landowners are the most precious part of a state. – Thomas Jefferson

Category:
Farming
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Other Quotes from
Citizenship
category

It is not the function of our Government to keep the citizen from falling into error; it is the function of the citizen to keep the Government from falling into error. – Robert H. Jackson

Category:
Citizenship

The true courage of civilized nations is readiness for sacrifice in the service of the state, so that the individual counts as only one amongst many. The important thing here is not personal mettle but aligning oneself with the universal. – G. W. F. Hegel

Category:
Citizenship

Our citizenship in the United States is our national character. Our citizenship in any particular state is only our local distinction. By the latter we are known at home, by the former to the world. Our great title is AMERICANS — our inferior one varies with the place. – Thomas Paine

Category:
Citizenship

Random Quotes

Self-confidence is the first requisite to great undertakings. – Samuel Johnson

Category:
great

I was very pleased that the positive things about me and my game outshone the aggressive style of play I use. I would never tone that down, because I believe in that style of play, and I believe that you can play rough on the court and still be a good sport. – Sue Wicks

Category:
positive

Hell is paved with great granite blocks hewn from the hearts of those who said, I can do no other. – Heywood Broun

Category:
Hell

In times of great stress or adversity, its always best to keep busy, to plow your anger and your energy into something positive. – Lee Iacocca

Category:
Anger