Action Quote by James Madison
“Inference is founded upon obvious reasons. Regard to reputation has a less active influence, when the infamy of a bad action is to be divided upon a number, than when it is to fall singly upon one. A spirit of faction . . . will often hurry the persons of whom they were composed into improprieties and excesses for which they would blush in a private capacity.”
About This Quote
Source Letter: Political Theory, 1790
Reputation influences judgment less than direct wrongdoing; factions amplify excesses and improprieties.
In simple terms: Reputation less powerful than actions; factions worsen behavior.
Key Takeaway
Beware factional bias.
Themes
politics
reputation
faction
ethics
Mood
analytical
critical
Type
philosophical
observational
When to use this quote
- legislative debate
- public opinion
- organizational governance
Key Concepts
political theory
social psychology
morality
Questions to Reflect On
- How do factions shape decisions?
- When is reputation important?
A Different Perspective
Factions can also protect minority interests.
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