“In matters of style, swim with the current; in matters of principle, stand like a rock.”
“If you would have a happy family life, remember two things – in matters of principle, stand like a rock; in matters of taste, swim with the current.”
"In matters of principle, stand like a rock; in matters of taste, swim with the current. Give up money, give up fame, give up science, give up earth itself and all it contains, rather than do an immoral act. And never suppose that in any situation, or under any circumstances, it is best for you to do a dishonorable thing. Whenever you are to do a thing, though it can never be known but to yourself, ask yourself how you would act were all the world looking at you, and act accordingly."
~ attributed to President Thomas Jefferson (April 13, 1743 - July 4, 1826)
https://www.monticello.org/site/research-and-collections/matters-style-swim-currentspurious-quotation
Comments: It is clear that the quotation came into use at least as early as the 19th century, although when it was used, it was not attributed to a particular author and was often referred to as an “old adage.” It is not clear where the phrase originated from, but there is no proof that Jefferson ever uttered these words. It appears that the phrase became connected to Jefferson around 1973, and from then on, it is almost always attributed to him when quoted - usually in the context of homemaking or education.
~ Elizabeth Huff, June 8, 2011
https://www.monticello.org/site/research-and-collections/matters-style-swim-currentspurious-quotation
