Final answer:
Thomas Jefferson's ethical standards are complex, with a successful first term due to his commitment to limited government and individual liberties but a challenging second term with the Embargo Act. His ownership of slaves contradicts the principles of liberty and equality he espoused, leading authors to debate his adherence to ethical practices.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question of how Thomas Jefferson meets or fails to meet the ethical standards established by the authors involves a discussion about Jefferson's perception as a leader, his policies, and the contradictions inherent in his life and presidency. Jefferson's successes and failures are often measured against the ethical standards of the time and the author's interpretation of those standards.
Jefferson's first term was largely considered a success because it reflected his core belief in limited government and the protection of individual liberties. He opposed the Alien and Sedition Acts, reflecting his commitment to protecting free speech and the rights of citizens. Jefferson also advocated for the rights of states within the federal system, as demonstrated by the Kentucky and Virginia Resolutions. His belief in the pursuit of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, over property rights, is a direct reflection of his alignment with Enlightenment values, particularly those of Locke and the pursuit of true and solid happiness.
However, Jefferson's second term faced numerous challenges, as he struggled to maintain American neutrality during the Napoleonic Wars, which led to the unpopular Embargo Act of 1807. Furthermore, the ethical paradox of Jefferson owning slaves while proclaiming liberty and equality for all has led many authors to question the consistency of his moral philosophy.
Ultimately, Jefferson's adherence to ethical standards is a complex topic that involves analyzing the ideals he publicly advocated and how his actions both aligned with and contradicted those principles, within the context of his time.