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
[T]he delegation of the government, in [a republic], to a small number of citizens elected by the rest . . . [is] to refine and enlarge the public views by passing them through the medium of a chosen body of citizens, whose wisdom may best discern the true interest of their country and whose patriotism and love of justice will be least likely to sacrifice it to temporary or partial considerations.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote discusses the value of representative democracy in a republic, emphasizing the need for wise and patriotic leaders.
James Madison highlights the importance of delegating authority to a select group of citizens in a republic to ensure that the public's views are refined and expanded. He argues that these elected representatives should possess the wisdom to discern the true interests of the country, prioritizing justice and the common good over temporary or self-serving interests, thus ensuring a stable and equitable government.
Themes
DemocracyRepresentationGovernmentWisdomPatriotism
In practice
Example use cases
During a political debate, one might quote this to emphasize the importance of wise leadership.
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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