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 was by the sober sense of our citizens that we were safely and steadily conducted from monarchy to republicanism, and it is by the same agency alone we can be kept from falling back.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Citizens' rational judgment is crucial for maintaining a stable government and preventing regression to monarchy.
James Madison emphasizes the importance of the collective wisdom and rationality of the citizens in guiding the transition from a monarchy to a republican form of government. He argues that this same sober sense among the populace is essential to prevent society from reverting to tyranny or oppressive rule, highlighting the role of informed and engaged citizens in a democracy.
Themes
CitizenshipGovernmentDemocracyRepublicanismWisdom
In practice
Example use cases
In a political speech discussing the importance of civic engagement and responsibility among the electorate.
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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