Absurd Quote by Alexander Hamilton
“There is nothing absurd or impracticable in the idea of a league or alliance between independent nations for certain defined purposes precisely stated in a treaty regulating all the details of time, place, circumstance, and quantity; leaving nothing to future discretion; and depending for its execution on the good faith of the parties.”
About This Quote
Source Letter: “The Federalist Papers, No. 15”, 1787
A detailed treaty should specify all conditions to avoid future ambiguity.
In simple terms: Specify all details in agreements.
Key Takeaway
Draft thorough contracts.
Themes
law
treaties
precision
Mood
analytical
cautious
Type
historical
political
When to use this quote
- international negotiations
- business contracts
- policy making
Key Concepts
political theory
legal drafting
Questions to Reflect On
- How much detail is enough in a pact?
- When should discretion be allowed?
A Different Perspective
Over‑specification can limit flexibility.
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