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
[Y]ou will understand the game behind the curtain too well not to perceive the old trick of turning every contingency into a resource for accumulating force in the government.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote highlights the manipulation of power by governments in times of uncertainty.
James Madison's quote points to the notion that governments often use crises or uncertainties to strengthen their own power and control. He suggests that astute observers can recognize this tactic as an old trick where any situation is leveraged to consolidate authority and influence within the government, often at the expense of individual freedoms or societal well-being.
Themes
PowerGovernmentManipulationControlCrisis
In practice
Example use cases
During a political debate, one might invoke this quote to illustrate the opportunistic behavior of politicians.
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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