In his letter of October 28, 1813, Thomas Jefferson reflects on governance, reason, and the dangers of religious dogma. He argues that government must be based on rational principles, not divine right or inherited tradition. He warns Adams about the historical dangers of priestly influence in politics, asserting that an enlightened citizenry is the best safeguard against tyranny. Jefferson champions education as a tool for preserving liberty and urges vigilance against intellectual complacency. He closes with a reaffirmation of his friendship with Adams, emphasizing their shared hopes for the future despite ideological differences. This letter remains a powerful testament to Jefferson’s Enlightenment ideals and his unwavering belief in the necessity of informed self-government.
