The two principles on which our conduct towards the Indians should be founded, are justice and fear. After the injuries we have done them, they cannot love us . . . .
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Jefferson argues that relations with Native Americans should be based on justice and fear because past harms make love impossible.
- In plain terms
- We must treat Native people with fairness but keep them afraid since we have hurt them too much.
- What can you take from it?
- Past injustices destroy trust, making fear a necessary tool for control.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Can justice exist without trust?
- Is fear a sustainable foundation for peace?
Another view
Relying on fear perpetuates cycles of violence and undermines moral authority.
More from Thomas Jefferson
Our liberty depends on the freedom of the press, and that cannot be limited without being lost.
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