In Jefferson's mind democracy was tantamount to extreme individualism.

He conceived a democratic society to be composed of a collection of individuals, fundamentally alike in their abilities and deserts; and in organizing such a society, politically, the prime object was to provide for the greatest satisfaction of its individual members.

The good things of life which had formerly been monopolized by the privileged few, were now to be distributed among all the people.

It was unnecessary, moreover, to make any very artful arrangements, in order to effect an equitable distribution.

Such distribution would take care of itself, provided nobody enjoyed any special privileges and everybody had equal opportunities.