I think the right way to interpret most ‘declarations’ is as illocutionary acts. Jefferson is basically saying “If you try to deny us political equality, these enumerated rights and the freedom to start our own nation we’re going to shoot you with these here muskets.”
Jefferson is basically saying “If you try to deny us political equality, these enumerated rights and the freedom to start our own nation we’re going to shoot you with these here muskets.”
Or… “Look at me! Look at me! I’m saying catchy slogans that elicit positive political sentiment. Let me be the boss! Me!”
To be fair, it’s not an entirely empty political slogan. He’s offering to set up a system where he’ll have a chance at being in charge, but there will be some limits on how much in charge he will be.
I think the right way to interpret most ‘declarations’ is as illocutionary acts. Jefferson is basically saying “If you try to deny us political equality, these enumerated rights and the freedom to start our own nation we’re going to shoot you with these here muskets.”
Or… “Look at me! Look at me! I’m saying catchy slogans that elicit positive political sentiment. Let me be the boss! Me!”
To be fair, it’s not an entirely empty political slogan. He’s offering to set up a system where he’ll have a chance at being in charge, but there will be some limits on how much in charge he will be.