The essence of Government is power and power, lodged as it must be in human hands, will ever be liable to abuse. – James Madison
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
Wherever there is interest and power to do wrong, wrong will generally be done. – 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