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 proper to take alarm at the first experiment on our liberties. We hold this prudent jealousy to be the first duty of citizens and one of the noblest characteristics of the late Revolution. The freemen of America did not wait till usurped power had strengthened itself by exercise and entangled the question in precedents. They saw all the consequences in the principle, and they avoided the consequences by denying the principle. We revere this lesson too much ... to forget it
Interpretation
What this quote means
Citizens must remain vigilant and protective of their liberties from the very first signs of intrusion.
James Madison emphasizes the importance of being alert to any infringement on personal freedoms, suggesting that it is crucial for citizens to recognize and resist even the slightest encroachments on their liberties. He reflects on the actions of the freemen of America who, fearing the potential dangers of usurped power, chose to confront the threat at its inception rather than waiting for it to become firmly established. This proactive stance is portrayed as a vital lesson in defending democracy and individual rights.
Themes
LibertiesVigilanceCitizenshipFreedomDemocracy
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a speech about the importance of civil rights.
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.
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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.
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The advice nearest to my heart and deepest in my convictions is that the Union of the States be cherished and perpetuated.
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Knowledge will forever govern ignorance; and a people who mean to be their own governors must arm themselves with the power which knowledge gives.
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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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