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
In this relation, then, the proposed government cannot be deemed a national one; since its jurisdiction extends to certain enumerated objects only, and leaves to the several states, a residuary and inviolable sovereignty over all other objects.
Interpretation
What this quote means
James Madison emphasizes the limited nature of the government's authority in relation to the states' sovereignty.
This quote highlights the principle of federalism as established by the U.S. Constitution, where the federal government is granted specific powers while the states retain autonomy over all other matters. Madison argues that by restricting the government's jurisdiction to only certain enumerated subjects, the states maintain their ultimate authority, which is essential for a balanced and functioning political system.
Themes
FederalismSovereigntyGovernmentStatesJurisdiction
In practice
Example use cases
In a legal discussion about states' 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.
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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