Alterations Quote by James Madison
“That useful alterations will be suggested by experience, could not but be foreseen . . . . It moreover equally enables the general and state governments to originate the amendment of errors as they may be pointed out by the experience on one side or on the other.”
About This Quote
Source Letter to Thomas Jefferson, 1790
Experience should guide legislative amendments, as unforeseen issues arise.
In simple terms: Learn from experience.
Adapt laws wisely.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- policy revision
- public administration
- legal reform
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we balance tradition and innovation?
- What mechanisms ensure diverse input?
Experience may be biased or incomplete.