The class of citizens who provide at once their own food and their own raiment, may be viewed as the most truly independent and happy. – James Madison
I have no doubt but that the misery of the lower classes will be found to abate whenever the Government assumes a freer aspect and the laws favor a subdivision of Property. – James Madison
What is government itself but the greatest of all reflections on human nature? If men were angels, no government would be necessary. If angels were to govern men, neither external nor internal controls on government would be necessary. – James Madison
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 Madison