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
Every nation whose affairs betray a want of wisdom and stability may calculate on every loss which can be sustained from the more systematic policy of its wiser neighbors.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Nations that lack wisdom and stability will suffer losses to more strategically adept neighbors.
James Madison emphasizes the importance of wisdom and stability in governance. He suggests that nations failing to maintain these qualities are vulnerable to the systematic and more effective policies of other nations, leading to potential losses and setbacks in their affairs.
Themes
WisdomStabilityNationsGovernancePolicy
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech on government efficiency, one might quote Madison to highlight the need for sound policies.
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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