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
Every new regulation concerning commerce or revenue; or in any manner affecting the value of the different species of property, presents a new harvest to those who watch the change and can trace its consequences; a harvest reared not by themselves but by the toils and cares of the great body of their fellow citizens. This is a state of things in which it may be said with some truth that laws are made for the few not for the many.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote critiques how regulations often benefit a small group at the expense of the general population.
James Madison highlights the inherent inequality in the legislative process, suggesting that new regulations often advantage a select few who can exploit changes in law to their benefit. He points out that these individuals gain from the hard work and contributions of the broader society, implying a disconnect between the needs of the many and the interests of the few who wield influence over laws.
Themes
RegulationInequalityLawCommerceSociety
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a debate about the impact of new regulations on small businesses.
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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