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The Thomas Jefferson Discussion Group
of Orlando, Florida

Meeting No. 66 - July 4, 2007
Holiday House Restaurant, Orlando, Florida



THIS MONTH'S TOPIC:
Constructing a Jeffersonian Party Platform


"So, then, to every man his chance - to every man, regardless of his birth, his shining, golden opportunity - to every man the right to live, to work, to be himself, and to become whatever thing his manhood and his vision can combine to make him - this, seeker, is the promise of America."

Thomas Wolfe From You Can't Go Home Again


To me, and may I be so bold to suggest to Mr. Jefferson, this passage from modern day (published in 1940 after Wolfe's death in 1938) American literature embodies what our country is all about (or, should be all about). Of course, Wolfe's use of the term "man" should be interpreted as Jefferson used the term "man" in the declaration, meaning "human" or in the sense of "mankind."

The quote seems to me to capture the very essence of Jeffersonian philosophy on human freedom and limited government. Consequently, it could be a good theme to weave into a Jeffersonian Party platform. What do you think? Disagreement is encouraged! Remember, Mr. Jefferson confidently asserted:

"Error of opinion may be tolerated where reason is left free to combat it."

He was such a strong believer in the "marketplace of free ideas." Jefferson felt that ideas that had no value or were untrue would die a natural death in that marketplace - growing stale in the marketplace bin from lack of consumption and eventually thrown out - withering on the vine to use another agricultural metaphor.




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