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 purpose of the Constitution is to restrict the majority's ability to harm a minority.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the importance of protecting minority rights from the potential tyranny of the majority.
James Madison's quote highlights the foundational principle of the Constitution in a democratic society: to safeguard individual rights and minority interests against the majority's possible overreach. This reflects the core idea that democracy should protect not just the will of the majority, but also the rights and freedoms of those who may not be part of that majority, thereby ensuring justice and equality for all citizens.
Themes
ConstitutionMajorityMinorityRightsLiberty
In practice
Example use cases
Using this quote in a speech about civil rights can emphasize the need to protect minority groups.
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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