Charity Quote by James Madison
“The government of the United States is a definite government, confined to specified objects. It is not like the state governments, whose powers are more general. Charity is no part of the legislative duty of the government.”
About This Quote
Source Treat: The Federalist Papers, No. 51, 1788
The federal government has limited, specific powers, unlike broader state authority, and does not include charitable duties.
In simple terms: Federal government is limited and specific.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the scope of governmental authority.
Themes
government
law
federalism
charity
limits
Mood
analytical
serious
Type
political
educational
When to use this quote
- policy analysis
- civic education
- legal studies
- public administration
Key Concepts
Constitutional law
separation of powers
public policy
Questions to Reflect On
- How should societies balance government duties with private charity?
- What are the risks of over‑expanding federal power?
A Different Perspective
Charitable actions may still be encouraged through private means.
![“[I]t is impossible for those, who believe in the truth of Christianity, as a divine revelation, to doubt, that it is the especial duty of government to foster, and encourage it among all the citizens and subjects. This is a point wholly distinct from that of the right of private judgment in…” quote by Joseph Story](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/5c4/joseph-story-11919_believe_i-t-is-impossible-for-those-who-believe_635340.jpg)
![“It is certain that every class is interested in [educational] establishments which give to the human mind its highest improvements, and to every Country its truest and most durable celebrity.” quote by James Madison](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/964/james-madison-373_certain_it-is-certain-that-every-class-is-intere_22217.jpg)
