Quotation
Quote by James Madison
If men were angels, no government would be necessary.
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Understanding this quote
The quote says that if human beings were naturally perfect and always behaved well, society would not need government. Because people can act selfishly or harm one another, some system of rules and authority is necessary to limit wrongdoing and keep public life orderly.
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About this quotation
- Source
- Founders Online, National Archives — The Federalist No. 51
- Format
- Official Statement
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