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Cures Quote by James Madison

“It may be concluded that a pure democracy . . . can admit no cure for the mischiefs of faction.” quote by James Madison
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“It may be concluded that a pure democracy . . . can admit no cure for the mischiefs of faction.”

James Madison

About This Quote

Source The Federalist Papers, No. 51, 1788

Pure democracy cannot control factional mischief; safeguards are needed.

In simple terms: Democracy alone can’t curb factions.

Key Takeaway

Design institutions to limit factional harm.

Themes

politics faction democracy checks

Mood

analytical cautious

Type

political theoretical

When to use this quote

  • legislature
  • electoral systems
  • public policy

Key Concepts

republicanism constitutional design pluralism

Questions to Reflect On

  • What checks are most effective?
  • How to balance majority rule?
A Different Perspective

Too many factions can still destabilize.

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