Federalist #10 and Representative Majority Rule Flashcards
What is the lesson of history regarding republics?
the importance of civic virtue, checks and balances, and the dangers of unchecked power
What is the definition of a faction?
A faction, according to Madison, is a group (large or small) driven by a shared passion or interest that harms the rights of others or the overall good of the community.
What are the two causes of faction?
Difference in opinion and in equal distribution of property.
What are the potential ways of preventing factions?
Removing its causes or controlling its effects.
Why aren’t these preventative measures desirable?
It destroys liberty, a cure worse than the disease.
Why can’t the causes of faction be prevented?
They are rooted in human nature.
What does Madison mean that factions are sown in the nature of man?
There will always be difference in opinion.
What is a “pure democracy” versus a “republic”
In the republic, some of the government is delegated to a small number of citizens elected by the rest; and a a greater number of citizens, and property.
A pure democracy is a smaller group of people running by majority.
How does Madison propose that republics can control the effects of faction?
By the institution of checks that counter balance the passions of the people.
How does representation help control the effects of faction?
It refines and enlarges public opinion by implementing those who will identify the best interest and in justice act accordingly
How does an extended sphere (territory) and large population help control the effects of faction?
It makes it less probable that a majority of the whole will have a common motive to invade the rights of other citizens.
