The diversity in the faculties of men, from which the rights of property originate, is not less an insuperable obstacle to a uniformity of interests. The protection of these faculties is the first object of government. From the protection of different and unequal faculties of acquiring property, the possession of different degrees and kinds of property immediately results; and from the influence of these on the sentiments and views of the respective proprietors, ensues a division of the society into different interests and parties.
James MadisonHaving outlived so many of my contemporaries, I ought not to forget that I may be thought to have outlived myself.
James MadisonPopular liberty might then have escaped the indelible reproach of decreeing to the same citizens, the hemlock on one day, and statues on the next.
James MadisonWhere a majority are united by a common sentiment, and have an opportunity, the rights of the minor party become insecure.
James Madison