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
Before any man can be considered as a member of Civil Society, he must be considered as a subject of the Governour of the Universe: And if a member of Civil Society, do it with a saving of his allegiance to the Universal Sovereign. We maintain therefore that in matters of Religion, no man's right is abridged by the institution of Civil Society and that Religion is wholly exempt from its cognizance.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote asserts the importance of individual allegiance to a higher moral authority beyond earthly governance.
James Madison's quote emphasizes that for a person to be fully part of civil society, their allegiance to a higher, universal power should remain intact. It suggests that matters of faith and religion should not be governed or restricted by civil authorities, thereby affirming the principle of religious liberty and the separation of church and state. This highlights the necessity of respecting individual beliefs and the autonomy of spiritual convictions in a society that values both community and individual rights.
Themes
ReligionCivil SocietyAllegianceFreedomAuthority
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could be used in a debate about religious freedom and the role of government.
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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