Problem of Faction Lecture

What is the main argument of Federalist 10?

A large republic with the improvements mentioned in Federalist 9 will work better than a small republic because it can better deal with the problem of factions.

What is the main argument of Federalist 10?

A large republic with the improvements mentioned in Federalist 9 will work better than a small republic because it can better deal with the problem of factions.

How does James Madison define a 'faction' in Federalist 10?

A group of citizens, whether amounting to a majority or minority, united by some common impulse of passion or interest, adverse to the rights of other citizens, or to the permanent and aggregate interests of the community.

According to Madison, what is the most common and durable source of factions?

The unequal distribution of property (wealth).

What are the two general methods of curing the mischiefs of faction identified by Madison in Federalist 10?

1. Removing its causesand controlling its effects.

What is the main argument of Federalist 10?

A large republic with the improvements mentioned in Federalist 9 will work better than a small republic because it can better deal with the problem of factions.

How does James Madison define a 'faction' in Federalist 10?

A group of citizens, whether amounting to a majority or minority, united by some common impulse of passion or interest, adverse to the rights of other citizens, or to the permanent and aggregate interests of the community.

According to Madison, what is the most common and durable source of factions?

The unequal distribution of property (wealth).

What are the two general methods of curing the mischiefs of faction identified by Madison in Federalist 10?

1. Removing its causes
2. Controlling its effects.

Why does Madison argue that removing the causes of faction is an impracticable remedy?

Because it would require either destroying liberty (which is essential to political life) or giving every citizen the same opinions, passions, and interests (which is impossible).

How does a republic, particularly a large one, control the effects of faction?

By electing representatives whose wisdom may best discern the true interest of their country, and by having a greater number of citizens and extent of territory which makes it less probable for a majority faction to form and execute its oppressive plans.

According to Madison, why is a large republic superior to a small republic or pure democracy in controlling the effects of factions?

1. Greater number of representatives: Makes it harder for unworthy candidates to win elections.
2. Larger electorate: Makes it more difficult for a single, powerful faction to dominate.
3. Diversity of interests: A larger territory naturally encompasses a greater number of parties and interests, making it less likely for a majority to oppress a minority.
4. **Refinement of