I go on the principle that a public debt is a public curse and in a republican government more than in any other.
James MadisonRead
It is to be the assent and ratification of the several States, derived from the supreme authority in each State, the authority of the people themselves. The act, therefore establishing the Constitution, will not be a NATIONAL, but a FEDERAL act.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes that the U.S. Constitution derives its authority from the consent of individual states, representing the will of the people.
James Madison's quote underscores the foundational principle that the authority to establish the Constitution comes from the states themselves, reflecting the idea of federalism where power is shared between the national government and state governments. This concept highlights the significance of state sovereignty and the necessity of popular approval for legitimate governance, ensuring that the constitution is a collective agreement rather than a unilateral imposition.
Themes
ConstitutionFederalismStatesAuthorityPeople
In practice
Example use cases
During a lecture on American government, you could use this quote to illustrate the concept of federalism.
More from James Madison
All quotes →No man is allowed to be a judge in his own cause; because his interest would certainly bias his judgment, and, not improbably, corrupt his integrity. With equal, nay with greater reason, a body of men are unfit to be both judges and parties at the same time.
James MadisonRead
I believe there are more instances of the abridgment of the freedom of the people by gradual and silent encroachments of those in power, than by violent and sudden usurpations; but, on a candid examination of history, we shall find that turbulence, violence, and abuse of power, by the majority trampling on the rights of the minority, have produced factions and commotions, which, in republics, have, more frequently than any other cause, produced despotism.
James MadisonRead
The advice nearest to my heart and deepest in my convictions is that the Union of the States be cherished and perpetuated.
James MadisonRead
Knowledge will forever govern ignorance; and a people who mean to be their own governors must arm themselves with the power which knowledge gives.
James MadisonRead
The magnitude of this evil among us is so deeply felt, and so universally acknowledged, that no merit could be greater than that of devising a satisfactory remedy for it.
James MadisonRead
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