Suspicion is a virtue as long as its object is the public good, and as long as it stays within proper bounds. ... Guard with jealous attention the public liberty. Suspect every one who approaches that precious jewel.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Suspicion is virtuous when focused on the public good and kept within bounds. One must guard public liberty and suspect anyone who threatens it.
- In plain terms
- Be suspicious of those who threaten public liberty to protect freedom.
- What can you take from it?
- Guard liberty by watching those who endanger it.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- When is suspicion justified in public life?
- How do you protect liberty?
Another view
Excessive suspicion can undermine trust within a community.
More from Patrick Henry
I am not a Virginian, but an American.
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