There is not a truth existing which I fear or would wish unknown to the whole world.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Jefferson asserts he fears no truth and wants all truths known to the world, emphasizing transparency and openness.
- In plain terms
- He fears no truth and wants all knowledge to be public.
- What can you take from it?
- Truth should always be public, regardless of its nature.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Is all truth safe to share?
- What should remain unknown?
Another view
Some truths can cause harm if shared without context.
More from Thomas Jefferson
I like the dreams of the future better than the history of the past,-so good night!
Permalink to quote #202 It is not by the consolidation or concentration, of powers, but by their distribution that good government is effected.
Permalink to quote #204 A little revolution now and then is a good thing; the tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants. (1787)
Permalink to quote #201
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