A fondness for power is implanted in most men, and it is natural to abuse it when acquired. This maxim, drawn from the experience of all ages, makes it the height of folly to intrust any set of men with power which is not under every possible control; perpetual strides are made after more as long as there is any part withheld.
Alexander HamiltonIn all very numerous assemblies, of whatever character composed, passion never fails to wrest the sceptre from reason. Had every Athenian citizen been a Socrates, every Athenian assembly would still have been a mob.
Alexander HamiltonA nation which can prefer disgrace to danger is prepared for a master, and deserves one.
Alexander HamiltonYou should not have taken advantage of my sensibility to steal into my affections without my consent.
Alexander HamiltonWhy has government been instituted at all? Because the passions of man will not conform to the dictates of reason and justice without constraint.
Alexander HamiltonIf it be said that the legislative body are themselves the constitutional judges of their own powers, and that the construction they put upon them is conclusive upon the other departments, it may be answered, that this cannot be the natural presumption, where it is not be collected from any particular provisions in the Constitution.
Alexander Hamilton