In his book "American Sphinx: The Character of Thomas Jefferson," Joseph J. Ellis explores Jefferson's strong individuality and unwavering commitment to his personal beliefs. Jefferson's rejection of Federalism highlights his disdain for dogmatic adherence to any political party or system. He believed that aligning oneself completely with a party compromises one's freedom and moral autonomy, which he regarded as degrading.

Jefferson's perspective reflects his view that true liberty involves the ability to think independently and maintain personal integrity, even in political matters. He famously stated that if joining a party was a requirement for spiritual ascent, he would prefer to avoid it altogether. This conviction underscores his belief in the importance of individual thought and the dangers of political conformity, which he saw as detrimental to both personal and societal well-being.