The constitution of human nature" teaches us not to expect…
“The constitution of human nature" teaches us not to expect "that the persons, entrusted with the administration of the affairs of the particular members of a confederacy, will at all times be ready, with perfect good humor, and an unbiased regard to the public weal, to execute the resolutions of decrees of the general authority." "This tendency is not difficult to be accounted for," Publius argues, "It has its origin in the love of power.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Human nature tends toward power‑seeking, making unbiased governance unlikely without safeguards.
In simple terms: People often crave power, risking fairness.
Key Takeaway
Design institutions that limit personal power.
Themes
politics
human nature
governance
power
Mood
cautious
analytical
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- legislative bodies
- public administration
- elections
Key Concepts
political theory
constitutional design
ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we ensure officials remain unbiased?
- What checks best curb power‑driven decisions?
A Different Perspective
Ideal impartiality is hard to achieve in practice.