Thomas Jefferson

I am certainly not an advocate for frequent and untried changes in laws and constitutions, I think moderate imperfections had better be borne with; because, when once known, we accommodate ourselves to them and find practical means of correcting their ill effects. But I know, also, that laws and institutions must go hand in hand with the progress of the human mind.  As that becomes more developed, more enlightened, as new discoveries are made, new truths disclosed, and manners and opinions change with the change of circumstances, institutions must advance also, and keep pace with the times.

We might as well require a man to wear still the coat which fitted him when a boy, as civilized society to remain ever under the regimen of their barbarous ancestors.

The principles of our Constitution are wisely opposed to all perpetuations of power, and to every practice which may lead to hereditary establishments.

Aware of the tendency of power to degenerate into abuse, the worthies of our country have secured its independence by the establishment of a Constitution and form of government for our nation, calculated to prevent as well as to correct abuse.

Advertisements contain the only truths to be relied on in a newspaper.

I have not seen a newspaper in over a month, and feel much the better for it.

I have sworn upon the altar of God, eternal hostility against every form of tyranny over the mind of man.

I live for books.

When angry, count ten before you speak; if very angry, a hundred.