The history of ancient and modern republics had taught them that many of the evils which those republics suffered arose from the want of a certain balance, and that mutual control indispensable to a wise administration. They were convinced that popular assemblies are frequently misguided by ignorance, by sudden impulses, and the intrigues of ambitious men; and that some firm barrier against these operations was necessary. They, therefore, instituted your Senate.
Interpretation
The quote emphasizes the importance of a balanced government to prevent the pitfalls of democracy.
In this quote, Alexander Hamilton highlights the lessons learned from both ancient and modern republics regarding the dangers of unchecked democracy. He argues that popular assemblies can be influenced by ignorance and ambition, necessitating a governing structure, such as the Senate, to provide stability and prevent tyranny of the majority, ensuring a balanced administration that can safeguard against harmful impulses and maintain order.
In practice
During a political debate, one could reference this quote to discuss the need for checks and balances in government.
When men, engaged in unjustifiable pursuits, are aware that obstructions may come from a quarter which bare apprehension of opposition from doing what they would with eagerness rush into if no such external impediments were to be feared.
The tendency of a national bank is to increase public and private credit. The former gives power to the state, for the protection of its rights and interests: and the latter facilitates and extends the operations of commerce among individuals. Industry is increased, commodities are multiplied, agriculture and manufacturers flourish: and herein consists the true wealth and prosperity of a state.
It's not tyranny we desire; it's a just, limited, federal government.
The Achaeans soon experienced, as often happens, that a victorious and powerful ally is but another name for a master.
The people are turbulent and changing; they seldom judge right or make good decision.
The true principle of a republic is that the people should choose whom they please to govern them. Representation is imperfect, in proportion as the current of popular favor is checked. The great source of free government, popular election, should be perfectly pure, and the most unbounded liberty allowed.
Democracies are slow to anger and hesitant to go to war: Voters don't want to sacrifice their children for the glory of a selfish king.
Our democracy cannot be left in the hands of those who would rather watch or participate in a train wreck than stop it.
Only armchair politicians are immune from committing mistakes. Errors are inherent in political action.
Customs, traditions, laws should be flexible, within good reason, if that is what it takes to make our democracy work.
Colombia has been the leading western recipient of U.S. arms and training as violence has grown through the '90s.
I consider it…as subverting the fundamental and characteristic principle of the Government…and as bidding defiance to the sense in which the Constitution is known to have been proposed, advocated, and adopted. If Congress can do whatever in their discretion can be done by money, and will promote the General Welfare, the Government is no longer a limited one.
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