Quote of the Day: James Madison on Factions

 

In my readings for the Hillsdale Constitution 101 online course, I came across this passage in Federalist 10.  Was this guy ahead of his time, or what?  Clairvoyant?

A rage for paper money, for an abolition of debts, for an equal division of property, or for any other improper or wicked project, will be less apt to pervade the whole body of the Union than a particular member of it, in the same proportion as such a malady to taint a particular county or district than an entire State.

I think the Founders might be somewhat alarmed today, if they could see how many “improper or wicked projects” have inflamed entire States.

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  1. Mark Camp Member
    Mark Camp
    @MarkCamp

    RushBabe,

    Triple Double Like.

    M

    • #1
  2. Jimmy Carter Member
    Jimmy Carter
    @JimmyCarter

    RushBabe49: Was this guy ahead of his time, or what?  Clairvoyant?

    Just educated and honest.

    • #2
  3. Rodin Member
    Rodin
    @Rodin

    RushBabe49: think the Founders might be somewhat alarmed today…

    Somewhat?! I think Jefferson would double down on his “blood of patriots” sentiments.

     

    • #3
  4. She Member
    She
    @She

    RushBabe49: I think the Founders might be somewhat alarmed today…

    I agree.  And cannot help thinking that their recollected British birthright privilege would probably render them “Miffed,” “Peeved,” and “A Bit Cross” as well.

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    • #4
  5. Ray Kujawa Coolidge
    Ray Kujawa
    @RayKujawa

    Federalism supports individualized state approaches to election reform, as an example. And when those US Congressional representatives and senators represent their states interests, they are less likely to jam a one-size-fits-all approach down the throat of all states because factions will be on different sides of any given issue. Nance Pelosi please take note.

    • #5
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