letters are not the first, but the last step in the progression from barbarism to civilisation.
Interpretation
Jefferson highlights the importance of written communication in the development of civilized society.
In this quote, Thomas Jefferson reflects on the evolution of human society, suggesting that the invention of letters and writing is a crucial indicator of our progress from primitive conditions to a more cultured civilization. He emphasizes that literacy and the ability to communicate through writing are vital milestones that represent the sophistication and advancement of society beyond its barbaric roots.
In practice
In a speech about the importance of literacy programs, one might quote Jefferson to emphasize the role of written communication in progress.
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.
I never heard one word in Pixar about, 'Will kids get this?' I don't think it's important that they get everything. I think that it's important that they get engaged, interested.
What you look for as a reader is somebody who is going to take you and say, 'C'mon. Come into the story. I'm going to show you what there is to see.' The guide who is going to tell you, 'Pay attention over there,' or, 'Do you remember that other thing? Now watch!'
You see, unlike in the movies, there is no THE END sign flashing at the end of books. When I've read a book, I don't feel like I've finished anything. So I start a new one.
Middle-income countries need to attend to the education of their poorest people to build their economies and ensure long-term stability.
Pleasant is a rainy winter's day, within doors! The best study for such a day, or the best amusement,βcall it which you will,βis a book of travels, describing scenes the most unlike that sombre one
We are born weak, we need strength; helpless, we need aid; foolish, we need reason. All that we lack at birth, all that we need when we come to man's estate, is the gift of education.
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