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
Of all the enemies of public liberty, war is perhaps the most to be dreaded, because it comprises and develops the germ of every other.
Interpretation
What this quote means
War poses the greatest threat to public freedom as it nurtures and fosters other enemies of liberty.
In this quote, James Madison warns that war is a fundamental enemy of public liberty, as it not only endangers freedoms directly through conflict but also creates conditions that allow for further oppression and tyranny. War can lead to the suspension of civil rights, the expansion of government power, and the justification of repression, all of which further threaten the liberties of the people.
Themes
WarLibertyFreedomPublicEnemy
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a speech about the importance of civil liberties during times of conflict.
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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