Governed Quote by James Madison
““You must first enable the government to control the governed; and in the next place, oblige it to control itself.””
About This Quote
Source Treat: Federalist Papers, No. 51, 1788
A government must have power over citizens while also being constrained by its own rules.
In simple terms: Government must control people and itself.
Key Takeaway
Ensure checks on power.
Themes
politics
governance
accountability
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- legislation
- public policy
- civil rights
Key Concepts
social contract
self‑regulation
Questions to Reflect On
- How can a state balance authority and self‑control?
- What mechanisms prevent governmental overreach?
A Different Perspective
Power can become oppressive without internal limits.
![“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)
