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
I entirely concur in the propriety of resorting to the sense in which the Constitution was accepted and ratified by the nation. In that sense alone it is the legitimate Constitution.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the importance of interpreting the Constitution based on the understanding of those who originally accepted it.
James Madison's statement underscores the necessity of adhering to the original intent and context of the Constitution as it was ratified by the people. He argues that the Constitution's legitimacy derives solely from its adherence to the meanings understood by its framers and the society at the time of its ratification, suggesting that deviations from this interpretation compromise its authority.
Themes
ConstitutionOriginal IntentRatificationLegitimacyInterpretation
In practice
Example use cases
When discussing constitutional law in a legal presentation.
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.
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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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