This [a state militia system] appears to me the only substitute that can be devised for a standing army, and the best possible security against it, if it should exist.
Interpretation
Hamilton advocates for a state militia as a substitute for a standing army to ensure security and prevent potential tyranny.
In this quote, Alexander Hamilton argues that a system of state militias serves as an essential alternative to a permanent standing army. He suggests that such militias provide the best form of security against the dangers associated with a standing army, which can lead to tyranny and oppression. This reflects his belief in the balance of power and the importance of local control in military affairs.
In practice
During discussions on national defense, one might reference this quote to emphasize the importance of local militias over a permanent army.
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.
America is not just a democracy, it represents a certain culture of competitive mobility and personality aspirations, politics is not merely a clash of interests, but a clash of dreams.
Being able to afford everything you desire is not, by any means, the worst thing that can happen to you. But, depressingly, and more profoundly, neither is it the best.
Philosophy is tested and characterised by the way in which it appropriates its history.
Socrates, in Plato, formulates ideas of order: the Iliad, like Shakespeare, knows that a violent disorder is a great order.
What is essential in war is victory, not prolonged operations.
Until you can see everything in the world as your friend, your work is not done.
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