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 the war was just in its origin and necessary and noble in its objects, we can reflect with a proud satisfaction that in carrying it on no principle of justice or honor, no usage of civilized nations, no precept of courtesy or humanity, have been infringed.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Justice and honor can coexist with the necessities of conflict for noble purposes.
In this quote, James Madison reflects on the early stages of war, asserting that despite its violent nature, the goals of the war are just and noble. He emphasizes that throughout the conduct of the war, principles of justice, honor, and humanity have been maintained, suggesting that conflict does not inherently violate moral standards if pursued for righteous reasons.
Themes
WarJusticeHonorPrinciplesHumanity
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about military ethics, this quote can illustrate the importance of maintaining moral standards during conflict.
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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