Which ideology did Thomas Jefferson promote regarding political parties?

Thomas Jefferson's perspective on political parties was quite skeptical. He believed that political parties could lead to division and conflict within society. He argued that they often prioritize their own interests over the common good, which could undermine the unity necessary for a functioning democracy. Jefferson felt that parties could exacerbate factionalism and contribute to a polarized political atmosphere, detracting from the overarching goal of governance, which he saw as promoting the welfare of all citizens.

Jefferson's concern stemmed from his understanding of human nature and the potential for factions to pursue their own agendas rather than acting in the interests of the public. He feared that political parties might create an environment where loyalty to party outweighed loyalty to the nation, leading to a detrimental impact on civic harmony and public discourse. This perspective aligns with the belief that political parties are harmful and divisive, reflecting Jefferson's vision of a political landscape where individuals prioritize their citizenship over partisan allegiance.