Thomas Jefferson: Uncovering His Unique Philosophy and Vision

So much has been written about Thomas Jefferson that one may wonder if there is anything new to discover about the man. In fact, this makes Holowchak’s fourth book to feature this founding father. The author’s expertise in the latest work is not intended for novice historians nor arm-chair politicians.

Holowchak’s methodical style carries us through four stages of Jefferson’s underlying morality until it blooms into the framer’s vision for the young nation. When considering the historic penchant for demigods and dictators to derail fledgling republics, Jefferson’s plan of representative government for the people and by the people appears all the more radical. Holowchak’s illustrates how the ancient philosophers influenced Jefferson’s thinking that if people were educated they could live free of tyranny. Then building on the shoulders of the Founder’s personal “trinity”–Francis Bacon, John Locke, and Isaac Newton–the author explores Jefferson’s model to perpetually educate Americans. Holowchak tackles the multiple discrepancies between Jefferson’s ideology and his lifestyle to reveal the complexities of this American Philosopher, and reveals the reason why his most fundamental tenet was never implemented.