Factions
Republic vs. Democracy
James Madison
Majority vs Minority
Key Ideas
100

What is a faction?

A number of citizens, majority or minority, who are united and motivated by a common impulse of passion, interests, or disagree with the rights of other citizens. 

100

According to the paper, what is a republic?

A government in which the scheme of representation takes place, opens a different prospect, and promises the cure for which we are seeking. 

100

What was Madison’s purpose in writing this essay?

To defend the form of republican government proposed by the constitution. 

100

is Madison arguing in favor of majority rule or against it?

Madison argues against majority rule because he does not believe the masses can make enlightened decisions.

100

According to Madison, why is federalism the solution to eliminating factions?

National government deals with interests of the nation as a whole state legislatures handle issues among the state 

200

There are two methods of curing the mischiefs of faction: one by ______ it’s causes and the other by ______ it’s effects. 

removing;controlling 

200

What is a democracy?

A system of government by the whole population or all the eligible members of a state, typically through elected representatives. 

200

What political party was James Madison a co founder of?

The democratic-republican party.

200

Why do the people not have to worry about the minority faction?

Because they will always be beat by the majority in an election 

200

According to the papers, why did Madison believe that the justices of the minorities were being ignored?

Decisions were made in the self interests of the majorities 

300

Name the two methods of removing the causes of a faction.

Destroying their liberty and by giving every citizen the same opinions, passions and interests

300

What are the two great points of difference between a democracy and a republic?

1. The delegation of the government (to a small number of citizens elected by the rest).

2. The greater the number of citizens, and a greater sphere of country, over which the latter they may extend. 

300

What was Madison’s point of view on diversity and factions?

He believed that both could guarantee stability and justice under the new constitution.

300

Why do the people need to worry about a majority faction?

They control the interest and the government which is harmful. 

300

What is a method that Madison believes will prevent factions?

Not allowing the liberty of the community to form such groups 

400

What causes a faction?

it is according to different circumstances of civil society. Different opinions concerning religion, government, distribution of property, different leaders, or just human passions are all factors that divide mankind into parties. 

400

What advantage does a republic have over a democracy? (Think of factions)

A republic can control the effects of a faction.

400

What did Madison argue about the large size of the country in relation to its factions?

It will be more difficult for factions to gain control over others. 

400
Why does Madison believe it is crucial to favor against majority rule?

To prevent injustices among the minority faction 

400

According to the papers and the Declaration of Independence, the governments job is to _____

Maintain a strong central government

500
According to the papers, how does a faction spirit affect public administrations?

A factious spirit taints public administration and causes unsteadiness and injustice. 

500

Why is the possibility of men with bad intentions/motives being elected to office reduced in large countries with republican forms of government such as the US?

Because there will be more representatives chosen by a greater number of citizens. 

500

What founding father was Madison’s plan in opposition to?

Alexander Hamilton 

500

When Madison refers to “extending the sphere” of America, what is he implying?

That only the best and brightest should be representatives 

500

According to Madison, a democracy and a small republic both risk the same problem which is:

Risking majority tyranny 

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