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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.” quote by James Madison
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“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.”

James Madison

About This Quote

Source Letter to Thomas Jefferson, 1790

Experience should guide legislative amendments, as unforeseen issues arise.

In simple terms: Learn from experience.

Key Takeaway

Adapt laws wisely.

Themes

governance experience lawmaking

Mood

analytical pragmatic

Type

historical educational

When to use this quote

  • policy revision
  • public administration
  • legal reform

Key Concepts

political theory constitutional law

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we balance tradition and innovation?
  • What mechanisms ensure diverse input?
A Different Perspective

Experience may be biased or incomplete.

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