In the fevered state of our country, no good can ever result from any attempt to set one of these fiery zealots to rights, either in fact or principle. They are determined as to the facts they will believe, and the opinions on which they will act. Get by them, therefore, as you would by an angry bull; it is not for a man of sense to dispute the road with such an animal.

Summary

This quote by Thomas Jefferson highlights the futility of engaging with individuals driven by extreme passion or zealous ideologies. Jefferson suggests that trying to correct or reason with such people is fruitless as they are fixed in their beliefs and actions, disregarding both factual evidence and differing opinions. Jefferson advises others to steer clear of these fiery zealots, comparing them to angry bulls, emphasizing that arguing with them is pointless and unwise. Ultimately, Jefferson advocates for avoiding unnecessary conflicts and focusing on more meaningful, productive endeavors.

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