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 all the co-temporary discussions and comments, which the Constitution underwent, it was constantly justified and recommended on the ground, that the powers not given to the government, were withheld from it.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the importance of limiting government power to maintain individual freedoms.
James Madison's quote reflects a fundamental principle of American democracy, which is the idea that the government's authority is restricted to what is explicitly granted by the Constitution. This underscores the belief that any powers not specifically given to the government are inherently reserved for the people, promoting a view of limited government intervention in citizens' lives and ensuring the protection of individual liberties.
Themes
GovernmentFreedomConstitutionPowerIndividual Rights
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could be used in a debate about government overreach during a town hall meeting.
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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