America Quote by James Madison
“Is it not the glory of the people of America, that whilst they have paid a decent regard to the opinions of former times and other nations, they have not suffered a blind veneration for antiquity, for custom, or for names, to overrule the suggestions of their own good sense, the knowledge of their own situation, and the lessons of their own experience? To this manly spirit, posterity will be indebted for the possession, and the world for the example of the numerous innovations displayed on the American theatre, in favor of private rights and public happiness.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Federalist Papers, 1787
America values practical sense over blind reverence for tradition, fostering innovation and liberty.
In simple terms: Practical sense beats blind tradition.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize reasoned judgment over customs.
Themes
freedom
innovation
reason
Mood
thoughtful
determined
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- policy making
- education reform
- public debate
Key Concepts
civic virtue
public happiness
private rights
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies balance tradition with progress?
- What safeguards prevent misuse of "good sense"?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on reason may ignore cultural heritage.
![“It is certain that every class is interested in [educational] establishments which give to the human mind its highest improvements, and to every Country its truest and most durable celebrity.” quote by James Madison](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/964/james-madison-373_certain_it-is-certain-that-every-class-is-intere_22217.jpg)
![“I'll smoke, I'll cough, I'll get the tumors, I'll die, deal? Thank you America. [salutes]” quote by Bill Hicks](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/3d2/bill-hicks-970_america_i-ll-smoke-i-ll-cough-i-ll-get-the-tumor_655.jpg)
