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I entirely concur in the propriety of resorting to the…

“I entirely concur in the propriety of resorting to the sense in which the Constitution was accepted and ratified by the nation. In that sense alone it is the legitimate Constitution. And if that is not the guide in expounding it, there may be no security.” quote by James Madison
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“I entirely concur in the propriety of resorting to the sense in which the Constitution was accepted and ratified by the nation. In that sense alone it is the legitimate Constitution. And if that is not the guide in expounding it, there may be no security.”

James Madison

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The Constitution’s legitimacy rests on the people’s acceptance and ratification; this should guide its interpretation.

In simple terms: Constitution is legitimate if people accepted it.

Key Takeaway

Interpret law based on original consent.

Themes

law democracy constitution

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

legal historical

When to use this quote

  • court rulings
  • constitutional education
  • public policy debates
  • civic education

Key Concepts

originalism social contract legal theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • How to balance original intent with contemporary issues?
  • When should reinterpretation occur?
A Different Perspective

Historical context may differ from modern needs.

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