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
The essence of Government is power; and power, lodged as it must be in human hands, will ever be liable to abuse.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Governments hold power within society which can be misused by humans.
James Madison emphasizes that the fundamental nature of government is the possession of power. Since power is inevitably entrusted to human beings, it comes with the inherent risk of potential abuse, which underscores the need for checks and balances in governance to prevent tyranny and corruption.
Themes
GovernmentPowerAbuseHumanPolitics
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about political reforms at a town hall meeting.
More from James Madison
All quotes βNo 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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