Readings

Federalist 10:

Notes:

The current government is too unstable
There are two methods of removing the cause of faction; one being the destruction of liberty. The other is giving every citizen the same opinions, the same passions, and the same interests.
The first would be foolish because liberty tends to feed factions. Without liberty, factions would expire
The second is also very impractical because it is nearly impossible for everyone to have the same opinions
Madison argues that a large republic, like the one created by the Constitution, is the best system to control factions
- more people = more interests
Madison criticizes the idea of a pure democracy
- Majority factions can easily opress minorities
- There are fewer safeguards against emotional and impulsive decisions
This paper explains the logic behind the structure of the US government
Influences ideas like checks and balances, and minority rights

Federalist 51:

Notes:

Explains how the constitutions structure of government protects liberty by preventing any one branch or group from becoming too powerful
Thinks that liberty is best protected when power is divided and balanced
- Government is split into legislative, judicial, and executive
- they each have independent powers
- each branch can heck the others (vetoes, judicial review, impeachment)
Majority rule is essential in a republic
unchecked majorities can threaten minority rights
the constitution limits majority power through
- seperation of power
- federalism
- and a large diverse republic

What are the advantages and drawbacks of a large republic in which powers are divided between the federal government and states?

Advantages:

Leads to more differences in opinions which can help prevent factions from forming
There is state and federal power, states can tailor laws to their area
Seperation of power (checks and balances)
More political stability

Drawbacks: