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Constitution Quote by James Madison

“The Convention thought it wrong to admit in the Constitution the idea that there could be property in men.” quote by James Madison
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“The Convention thought it wrong to admit in the Constitution the idea that there could be property in men.”

James Madison

About This Quote

Source Speech: Constitutional Convention, 1787

The framers rejected the notion that people could own other humans as property, affirming inherent human rights.

In simple terms: Rejecting human ownership.

Key Takeaway

Uphold human dignity.

Themes

human rights equality law morality

Mood

reflective determined

Type

historical ethical

When to use this quote

  • civil rights law
  • education
  • activism
  • policy making

Key Concepts

natural rights legal philosophy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do modern laws reflect this principle?
  • What barriers remain to true equality?
A Different Perspective

The struggle for equality continues despite legal advances.

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