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
In a society under the forms of which the stronger faction can readily unite and oppress the weaker, anarchy may as truly be said to reign as in a state of nature.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Madison highlights that when the powerful unite to suppress the weak, it creates a form of anarchy similar to a lawless state.
James Madison's quote reflects on the nature of power dynamics in society, suggesting that a system where the stronger group can easily combine to dominate the weaker is just as chaotic and lawless as a natural state devoid of governance. He underlines the perils of unchecked power and the potential for oppression, cautioning against a complacent attitude toward societal structures that allow such injustices to persist.
Themes
AnarchyOppressionPowerSocietyJustice
In practice
Example use cases
In a debate on social justice, one might say, 'As James Madison noted, anarchy reigns when the powerful oppress the weak.'
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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