Quote by Thomas Jefferson

We have the wolf by the ears, and we can neither hold him nor safely let him go. Justice is in one scale, self-preservation in the other.

We have the wolf by the ears, and we can neither hold him no

Summary

This quote expresses a predicament or dilemma where taking action or not taking action both have potential adverse consequences. The metaphor of "having the wolf by the ears" suggests a situation where being in control is difficult, and the options available are equally challenging. On one hand, justice demands a particular course of action, while on the other hand, self-preservation urges caution and self-interest. This quote highlights the tension and difficulty of making decisions when conflicting priorities are at play.

Topics

By Thomas Jefferson

Liked the quote? Share it with your friends.

Random Quotations

Mathematics effectively began when a few Greek friends got t

Mathematics effectively began when a few Greek friends got together to talk about numbers and lines and angles.

The rulers of the state are the only persons who ought to ha

The rulers of the state are the only persons who ought to have the privilege of lying, either at home or abroad; they may be allowed to lie for the good of the state.

Waving the flag at the 1976 Olympics wasn't my idea. It was

Waving the flag at the 1976 Olympics wasn't my idea. It was too much apple pie and ice cream. Not that I don't love my country, but I felt it was my victory up there, I put all the time into it.

Time Love Victory Thetimes Flag

I am already kindly disposed towards you. My friendship it i

I am already kindly disposed towards you. My friendship it is not in my power to give: this is a gift which no man can make, it is not in our own power: a sound and healthy friendship is the growth of time and circumstance, it will spring up and thrive like a wildflower when these favour, and when they do not, it is in vain to look for it.

William Wordsworth

So to all Americans, in every city near and far, small and l

So to all Americans, in every city near and far, small and large, from mountain to mountain, and from ocean to ocean, hear these words: You will never be ignored again. Your voice, your hopes, and your dreams will define our American destiny. And your courage and goodness and love will forever guide us along the way.

People tend not to use this word beauty because it's not int

People tend not to use this word beauty because it's not intellectual - but there has to be an overlap between beauty and intellect.

Drive thy business or it will drive thee.

Drive thy business or it will drive thee.

Benjamin Franklin

Always continue the climb. It is possible for you to do what

Always continue the climb. It is possible for you to do whatever you choose, if you first get to know who you are and are willing to work with a power that is greater than ourselves to do it.

Ella Wheeler Wilcox

Belief consists in accepting the affirmations of the soul; u

Belief consists in accepting the affirmations of the soul; unbelief, in denying them.

Ralph Waldo Emerson

Without the support from religion--remember, we talked about

Without the support from religion--remember, we talked about it--no father, using only his own resources, would be able to bring up a child.

Religion Parenting Children Father Child

I got up with my wife, I sat down at the computer when she w

I got up with my wife, I sat down at the computer when she went to work, and I didn't stop until she got home.

There is a general knowledge that I am multi-dimensional, th

There is a general knowledge that I am multi-dimensional, that when you are creative you do a lot of things.