Fore fathers thoughts
By laglen
@laglen (19759)
United States
February 19, 2009 6:55am CST
Tyranny is defined as that which is legal for the government but illegal for the citizenry.
~ Thomas Jefferson
I have always respected Thomas Jefferson. I think he was one heck of a statesman no matter what era he would have been from. In the thick of party conflict in 1800, Thomas Jefferson wrote in a private letter, "I have sworn upon the altar of God eternal hostility against every form of tyranny over the mind of man."What do you think of Jefferson's views and how they apply today? This is not meant as a slam against Democrats, as this is a non-partisan issue. There is corruption in both parties and throughout the country.
Who of the forefathers clicks in your mind? Obviously George Washington was a very intelligent, soft spoken person with a lot of great ideas as well. I think all of these men were amazing with their forward thinking and dedication to America and our rights.
2 people like this
2 responses
@gewcew23 (8007)
• United States
20 Feb 09
I too respect the writing of Thomas Jefferson. Take for instance this quote
A wise and frugal government, which shall leave men free to regulate their own pursuits of industry and improvement, and shall not take from the mouth of labor the bread it has earned this is the sum of good government. Not only is this a great quote but should be recited every day by lawmakers. To go along with your quote
Experience hath shewn, that even under the best forms of government those entrusted with power have, in time, and by slow operations, perverted it into tyranny. Jefferson understood that any government, even ours, left to it's own devises would become a tyrannical government. That is probably why he said this
Every generation needs a new revolution.
2 people like this
@connierebel (1557)
• United States
19 Feb 09
You're right, it is a non-partisan issue. According to that definition, both parties are guilty of tyranny. Almost all of them are guilty of things that would be crimes if a private citizen does it, but its overlooked if you're part of the government.This reminds me that some of Obama's nominees haven't paid they're taxes. Imagine what would happen if we didn't pay our taxes, but nothing happens to them. I agree - its tyranny!
2 people like this
@laglen (19759)
• United States
19 Feb 09
From dictionary .com - tyr·an·ny
/'t?r?ni/ Show Spelled Pronunciation [tir-uh-nee] Show IPA Pronunciation
–noun, plural -nies.
1. arbitrary or unrestrained exercise of power; despotic abuse of authority.
Sounds familiar huh?
I am thinkin I would rather not pay mine!
