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
That the foundation of our national policy should be laid in private morality. If individuals be not influenced by moral principles, it is in vain to look for public virtue; it is, therefore, the duty of legislators to enforce, both by precept and example, the utility, as well as the necessity, of a strict adherence to the rules of distributive justice.
Interpretation
What this quote means
A nation's policies must reflect the moral principles of its individuals, as public virtue is dependent on private morality.
James Madison’s quote emphasizes the significance of personal morality in shaping national policy. He argues that without individual adherence to moral principles, any expectation of public virtue is futile. Legislators have a crucial role in promoting and exemplifying the importance of justice and ethical behavior, suggesting that the health of a society is intrinsically linked to the moral character of its citizens.
Themes
MoralityPublic VirtueJusticeLegislatorsPrinciples
In practice
Example use cases
During a political debate, one might quote this to advocate for ethical legislation.
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.
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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