Cases Quote by James Madison
“[In a democracy] a common passion or interest will, in almost every case , be felt by a majority of the whole; a communication and concert results from the form of government itself; and there is nothing to check the inducements to sacrifice the weaker party or an obnoxious individual.”
About This Quote
Source The: The Federalist Papers, No. 10, 1787
Democratic systems tend to amplify majority passions, risking oppression of minorities unless checks exist.
In simple terms: Majorities can dominate.
Guard minority rights.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- legislation
- public debate
- civil rights advocacy
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What mechanisms protect minorities?
- How can consensus be built?
Majorities may still suppress dissent.