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
The rich man, when contributing to a permanent plan for the education of the poor, ought to reflect that he is providing for that of his own descendants; and the poor man who concurs in a provision for those who are not poor that at no distant day it may be enjoyed by descendants from himself. It does not require a long life to witness these vicissitudes of fortune.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Education should benefit not only the present but also future generations, regardless of wealth.
James Madison emphasizes the importance of education as a collective responsibility that transcends current social standing. He suggests that wealthy individuals should consider their contributions to the education of the less fortunate as investments in their own legacy, while the poor should recognize that supporting these initiatives may eventually benefit their descendants as well. This highlights the interconnectedness of society and the long-term impact of educational opportunities on future generations.
Themes
EducationWealthLegacyFutureCommunity
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a speech about the importance of educational philanthropy.
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.
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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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