In framing a government which is to be administered by men over men you must first enable the government to control the governed; and in the next place oblige it to control itself.
James MadisonNothing could be more irrational than to give the people power, and to withhold from them information without which power is abused.
James MadisonWe've staked our future on our ability to follow the Ten Commandments with all our heart.
James MadisonAn armed and trained militia is the firmest bulwark of republics - that without standing armies their liberty can never be in danger, nor with large ones safe.
James MadisonBesides the advantage of being armed, which the Americans possess over the people of almost every other nation.... Notwithstanding the military establishments in the several kingdoms of Europe, which are carried as far as the public resources will bear, the governments are afraid to trust the people with arms.
James Madison