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
They can make no law which will not have its full operation on themselves and their friends, as well as on the great mass of the society.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Laws apply equally to everyone, including those who create them.
This quote by James Madison emphasizes the principle of equality before the law, asserting that lawmakers cannot create regulations or statutes that do not affect themselves and their close associates. It highlights the idea that true justice requires that the laws designed to govern society must apply universally, ensuring that no one is above the law, including those who are in power.
Themes
LawEqualityJusticeSocietyGovernment
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about the importance of fair legal systems.
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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