Citizens Quote by James Madison
“In a free government the security for civil rights must be the same as that for religious rights. ...under the republican forms [of government], for the rights of every class of citizens, will be diminished: and consequently the stability and independence of some member of the government, the only other security, must be proportionately increased. Justice is the end of government. It is the end of civil society. It ever has been and ever will be pursued until it be obtained, or until liberty be lost in the pursuit.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Federalist Papers, No. 51, 1788
Justice must be equally protected for all rights, and the government’s purpose is to secure liberty and fairness.
In simple terms: Justice protects all rights; government exists to secure liberty.
Ensure equal protection of rights.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- legislative drafting
- court rulings
- civil rights advocacy
- policy making
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we safeguard justice against partisan bias?
- What mechanisms ensure equal protection for all citizens?
Justice can be compromised by political interests or unequal enforcement.