Brendan Tompkins [MVP]

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WWJD - What Would Jefferson Do?

I wonder what Jefferson would say about the events of the last week. He'd definitely re-iterate that this country was founded on the principles of Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness. 

I believe that with this election, we've shown where our values are, as a people.  This election has shown that the three things Americans value most are Protection from Terrorism, Moral Values, and Taxes.  In fact, of those who voted Republican, here's what they said influenced their decision: Terrorism - 86%, Moral Values - 80% Taxes - 57%.  A Republican will probably tell you that Life = Protection from Terrorism, Liberty = Moral Values, and the Pursuit of Happiness = freedom from heavy taxation.

By contrast, those who voted Democrat said the most important issues were Health Care - 77%,   Economy - 80%, Education/Iraq - 73%.   Democrats strongly believe that Life = Health Care (the ability to get well when you are sick) Liberty = Tolerance (the ability to live your life according to your own personal moral code) and the Pursuit of Happiness = the Economy and Education (or hand-in-hand the ability to earn a living wage, afford a home and raise your family).

Where Thomas Jefferson himself would stand on the issue?

-Brendan


Posted 11-04-2004 12:44 PM by Brendan Tompkins

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Comments

David Hayden wrote re: WWJD - What Would Jefferson Do?
on 11-04-2004 8:38 AM
Unfortunately we can't ask him, but I think he would be closely aligned with the Libertarian Party: http://www.lp.org/

However, I think TJ would rather spend his time explaining the role of Government in our lives. He would probably freak as to how intrusive Government (at all levels) has become in our lives.

And worse, he would be in disbelief at how many people blame others for their troubles and misfortune as opposed to taking personal responsibility and accountability in their lives. He would also shake his head at how many people look to the government for support.

He would mention how the ends don't justify the means. Certainly all political parties and all citizens want the same ends, but it is the means by which they get them that differ.

However, one thing is true of both the Democrats and Republicans. There most important job is keeping their job, which means they need (us) to be as dependent on them as much as possible.

I wish the Founding Fathers were here to teach people a thing or two...
Brendan Tompkins wrote re: WWJD - What Would Jefferson Do?
on 11-04-2004 8:58 AM
David,

I do think that TJ's views probably do most closely align with the Libertarian party. Mine probably do too. Problem is, with them getting less than 1% of the popular vote, is that really a viable party? It seems like an ant trying to fight an elephant. No pun of course.
Chris Wallace wrote re: WWJD - What Would Jefferson Do?
on 11-04-2004 10:13 AM
I'll probably get flamed for saying this but I think the reason there are so few "libertarian's" is people are too afraid to think for themselves. They go with whatever they were brought up with and fear upsetting the herd (sadly, most people are very sheeplike in nature).
Darrell wrote re: WWJD - What Would Jefferson Do?
on 11-04-2004 10:13 AM
With all these political posts, I'm beginning to get the feeling you're not happy with the results?

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