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 the first place, it is to be remembered, that the general government is not to be charged with the whole power of making and administering laws. Its jurisdiction is limited to certain enumerated objects, which concern all the members of the republic, but which are not to be attained by the separate provisions of any.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The government's power is limited and defined by specific responsibilities.
This quote emphasizes the principle that the government's authority is not all-encompassing; instead, it is restricted to particular tasks that are crucial for the collective wellbeing of the republic. Madison advocates for a clear demarcation of powers to prevent overreach and ensure that individual provisions do not conflict with the overarching governance framework.
Themes
GovernmentPowerLawsJurisdictionRepublic
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about the limits of government intervention in personal lives.
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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