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
As long as the reason of man continues fallible, and he is at liberty to exercise it, different opinions will be formed. As long as the connection subsists between his reason and his self-love, his opinions and passions will have a reciprocal influence on each other, and the former will be objects to which the latter attach themselves.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Human opinions are influenced by both reason and self-love, leading to diverse perspectives.
James Madison's quote highlights the inherent fallibility of human nature, suggesting that as long as individuals have the freedom to think, they will form differing opinions. These opinions are not only shaped by rational thought but are also deeply intertwined with personal feelings and self-interest, indicating that our passion can both influence and be influenced by our reasoning.
Themes
ReasonOpinionsSelf-LoveFallibilityPerspective
In practice
Example use cases
In a political debate, this quote can be used to illustrate the concept of differing viewpoints influenced by personal beliefs.
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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