"Our ancient laws expressly declare that those..." - Quote by Thomas Jefferson
Our ancient laws expressly declare that those who are but delegates themselves shall not delegate to others powers which require judgment and integrity in their exercise.
More by Thomas Jefferson
“It is a problem, not clear in my mind, that [a society without government, as among our Indians] is not the best. But I believe it to be inconsistent with any great degree of population.”
“Games played with the ball, and others of that nature, are too violent for the body and stamp no character on the mind.”
“I would observe to you that what is called style in writing or speaking is formed very early in life while the imagination is warm, and impressions are permanent.”
More on Government
“Every man should be responsible to others, nor should anyone be allowed to do just as he pleases; for where absolute freedom is allowed there is nothing to restrain the evil which is inherent in every man. But the principle of responsibility secures that which is the greatest good in states; the right persons rule and are prevented from doing wrong, and the people have their due. It is evident that this is the best kind of democracy, and why? because the people are drawn from a certain class.”
“Experience has shown that it is difficult, if not impossible, for a populous state to be run by good laws.”
“I deny the power of the general government to making paper money, or anything else a legal tender.”
More on Representation
“True democracy is not inconsistent with a few persons representing the spirit, the hope and the aspirations of those whom they claim to represent.”
“Completely true to nature!' - what a lie: / How could nature ever be constrained into a picture? / The smallest bit of nature is infinite! / And so he paints what he likes about it. / And what does he like? He likes what he can paint!”
“Democracy can only represent the average if not less than the average.”