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It was not my intention to doubt that, the Doctrines of the Illuminati, and principles of Jacobinism had not spread in the United States. On the contrary, no one is more truly satisfied of this fact than I am. The idea that I meant to convey, was, that I did not believe that the Lodges of Free Masons in this Country had, as Societies, endeavoured to propagate the diabolical tenets of the first, or pernicious principles of the latter (if they are susceptible of seperation). That Individuals of them may have done it, or that the founder, or instrument employed to found, the Democratic Societies in the United States, may have had these objects; and actually had a seperation of the People from their Government in view, is too evident to be questioned.

George Washington#28

PoliticsConspiracyIdeologySuspicion

About this quote

What does it mean?
The author distinguishes between the spread of ideas and the intentional conspiracy of specific societies.
In plain terms
Ideas spread widely but specific groups may not be plotting against the government.
What can you take from it?
Distinguish between widespread ideas and organized conspiracy.

Where it applies

  • political debate
  • conspiracy theories
  • organizational scrutiny

Putting it to work

  • analyze political groups
  • verify conspiracy claims

Questions to consider

  • How do you verify organizational intent?
  • What separates belief from evidence?

Another view

The quote relies on the author's subjective certainty without concrete evidence.

More from George Washington

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  2. Democratical States must always feel before they can see: it is this that makes their Governments slow, but the people will be right at last.

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  3. If you tell the Legislatures they have violated the treaty of peace and invaded the prerogatives of the confederacy they will laugh in your face. What then is …

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