The history of ancient and modern republics had taught them that many of the evils which those republics suffered arose from the want of a certain balance, and that mutual control indispensable to a wise administration. They were convinced that popular assemblies are frequently misguided by ignorance, by sudden impulses, and the intrigues of ambitious men; and that some firm barrier against these operations was necessary. They, therefore, instituted your Senate.
Interpretation
The quote emphasizes the importance of a balanced government to prevent the pitfalls of democracy.
In this quote, Alexander Hamilton highlights the lessons learned from both ancient and modern republics regarding the dangers of unchecked democracy. He argues that popular assemblies can be influenced by ignorance and ambition, necessitating a governing structure, such as the Senate, to provide stability and prevent tyranny of the majority, ensuring a balanced administration that can safeguard against harmful impulses and maintain order.
In practice
During a political debate, one could reference this quote to discuss the need for checks and balances in government.
When men, engaged in unjustifiable pursuits, are aware that obstructions may come from a quarter which bare apprehension of opposition from doing what they would with eagerness rush into if no such external impediments were to be feared.
The tendency of a national bank is to increase public and private credit. The former gives power to the state, for the protection of its rights and interests: and the latter facilitates and extends the operations of commerce among individuals. Industry is increased, commodities are multiplied, agriculture and manufacturers flourish: and herein consists the true wealth and prosperity of a state.
It's not tyranny we desire; it's a just, limited, federal government.
The Achaeans soon experienced, as often happens, that a victorious and powerful ally is but another name for a master.
The people are turbulent and changing; they seldom judge right or make good decision.
The true principle of a republic is that the people should choose whom they please to govern them. Representation is imperfect, in proportion as the current of popular favor is checked. The great source of free government, popular election, should be perfectly pure, and the most unbounded liberty allowed.
People are finding it harder and harder to relate to foreign policy.
Politics, as a practise, whatever its professions, has always been the systematic organization of hatreds.
No government ought to exist for the purpose of checking the prosperity of its people or to allow such a principle in its policy.
Term limits would cure both senility and seniority- both terrible legislative diseases.
Democracy is not something that happens, you know, just at election time, and it's not something that happens just with one event. It's an ongoing building process. But it also ought to be a part of our culture, a part of our lives.
If I could have anything - you know, and this is across the board for any presidential candidate - I would have a greater acknowledgment of history in our policy and in our affairs.
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