I am an Epicurean. I consider the genuine (not the imputed) doctrines of Epicurus as containing everything rational in moral philosophy which Greece and Rome have left us.
Interpretation
Jefferson expresses his admiration for Epicurean philosophy, valuing rational moral teachings from Greece and Rome.
In this quote, Thomas Jefferson identifies himself as an Epicurean, emphasizing his belief that the authentic teachings of Epicurus represent the pinnacle of moral philosophy handed down from ancient Greece and Rome. He indicates a strong appreciation for the rational and thoughtful approach to ethics and happiness that Epicurus advocated, suggesting that these ideas are essential for understanding morality and leading a fulfilling life.
In practice
Using this quote in a philosophy class discussion on ancient moral teachings.
The firmness with which the (American) people have withstood the... abuses of the press, the discernment they have manifested between truth and falsehood, show that they may safely be trusted to hear everything true and false and to form a correct judgment between them.
I, place economy among the first & most important republican virtues, & public debt as the greatest of the dangers to be feared
βWe must make our choice between economy and liberty or confusion and servitude...If we run into such debts, we must be taxed in our meat and drink, in our necessities and comforts, in our labor and in our amusements...if we can prevent the government from wasting the labor of the people, under the pretense of caring for them, they will be happy.
Very many and very meritorious were the worthy patriots who assisted in bringing back our government to its republican tack. To preserve it in that, will require unremitting vigilance.
A nation, as a society, forms a moral person, and every member of it is personally responsible for his society.
Timid men prefer the calm of despotism to the tempestuous sea of liberty.
The most serious dangers for American freedom and the American way of life do not come from without.
In a state of poverty, illiteracy, people just remain exposed to all kinds of manipulation. That's what we have lived. It's easier to tell a poor person, 'You know what, you are poor, you're hungry because the other one has taken away your rights.'
One cannot understand how racism functions in the U.S. today if one ignores group power relations.
There is no body of theory or significant body of relevant information, beyond the comprehension of the layman, which makes policy immune from criticism.
But whether I become a believer or remain an agnostic, my belief or disbelief must derive its source from within, not from without. I, myself, must create its symbols. The transcendental is that which produces its own form. I will never discover its secret if I do not find it in my own heart; if I do not possess it already I shall never be able to acquire it.
Differences of habit and language are nothing at all if our aims are identical and our hearts are open.
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