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“No man can be a competent legislator who does not add to an upright intention and a sound judgment a certain degree of knowledge of the subject on which he is to legislate.” quote by James Madison
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“No man can be a competent legislator who does not add to an upright intention and a sound judgment a certain degree of knowledge of the subject on which he is to legislate.”

James Madison

About This Quote

Source The Federalist Papers, No. 55, 1788

Legislators need subject knowledge to combine good intentions and judgment into effective lawmaking.

In simple terms: Lawmakers must understand what they regulate.

Key Takeaway

Study the subject before legislating.

Themes

governance expertise responsibility

Mood

thoughtful inquisitive

Type

political educational

When to use this quote

  • law drafting
  • committee hearings
  • public hearings
  • policy analysis

Key Concepts

policy knowledge judgment

Questions to Reflect On

  • What knowledge gaps affect current legislators?
  • How can expertise be integrated into lawmaking?
A Different Perspective

Even with knowledge, political pressures can distort decisions.

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