Federalist 51 Flashcards
To maintain an intellectual purity, leaders in the three branches would all be elected, thus showing that their power was drawn from the authority of the people. But Madison doesn’t mind if that does NOT happen. Why?
The judicial branch would be the only exception. Certain qualifications are needed and must be met. The branch should make rightful decisions which won’t happen if they are relying on a vote.
Madison refers to both internal and external controls. Explain which controls the Constitution creates to control government tyranny.
Internal: checks and balances
External: voting
Which branch did Madison figure was the most powerful, and what did he reassure readers about this Constitution regarding this branch’s power?
The legislative branch is the most powerful but will be divided into two houses that aren’t connected directly. Each will be rendered by a different mode of election.
Which branch did Madison figure was weaker than the legislature, and what did he reassure readers about this Constitution regarding this branch’s power?
The executive branch is weak but will be given an absolute negative on the legislature. This is the power of the veto.
What is federalism?
The division of power between state and national governments.
Explain “double security” and remind yourself of Madison’s purpose in writing this paper to begin with.
The power the people surrender is divided between two distinct governments, the state and national. The amount of power given to each is then further divided among departments. Each government controls itself and the other.
What is the one reference to tyranny of the minority?
The fear of a king being appointed.
How does the concept of pluralism fit into this whole argument about avoiding tyranny of the majority?
With many factions, tyranny of the majority is less-likely to happen. It allows more liberty and more voices to be heard.
What is the end goal of government and civil society?
The end goal is to protect liberty and justice.
At the very end, he tosses in size principle. Explain how.
The larger the society, the more capable it is of self-government. Tyranny of the majority is less-likely to happen.
