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 have ever regarded the freedom of religious opinions and worship as equally belonging to every sect.
Interpretation
James Madison emphasizes the equal right to religious beliefs for all groups.
This quote reflects James Madison's foundational belief in religious freedom, advocating for the idea that every individual and sect has the right to their own beliefs and practices without oppression. It underscores the principle of equality in matters of faith, asserting that no one group should have dominance over others in their right to worship.
In practice
In a discussion about religious freedom at a conference, someone might cite this quote to highlight the importance of respecting diverse beliefs.
I go on the principle that a public debt is a public curse and in a republican government more than in any other.
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.
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.
The advice nearest to my heart and deepest in my convictions is that the Union of the States be cherished and perpetuated.
Knowledge will forever govern ignorance; and a people who mean to be their own governors must arm themselves with the power which knowledge gives.
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.
It doesn't stop being magic just because you know how it works.
Things that are done, it is needless to speak about...things that are past, it is needless to blame.
Liberty of any kind is never lost all at once.
Let us never forget that authentic power is service, which has its radiant culmination on the Cross.
Men judge by the complexion of the sky The state and inclination of the day.
We become aware of the void as we fill it.
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