Ignorance is preferable to error, and he is less remote from the truth who believes nothing than he who believes what is wrong. Thomas Jefferson, (Notes on Virginia, 1782) More Quotes by Thomas Jefferson, (Notes on Virginia, 1782) More Quotes From Thomas Jefferson, (Notes on Virginia, 1782) The legitimate powers of government extend to such acts only as are injurious to others. Thomas Jefferson, (Notes on Virginia, 1782)