The Federalist Papers
The Federalist Papers (all, with resources); Federalist 10 (by James Madison; to guard against "factions"); Federalist 51 (by James Madison; checks & balances in the structure of gov't).
Federalist 10 Questions
Answer all of the following questions. Be sure to include evidence for each answer—some require a simple quote, while others may be best supported with a series of quotes.
1. What are factions, according to Madison? What does Madison believe are the causes of factions?
2. What is Madison’s view of human nature? Does he view people as inherently good or bad? How does this influence his vision for the American government?
3. How could we cure the "mischiefs of faction," according to Madison? Why are these remedies worse than the disease, according to Madison? What does Madison propose as a solution to factions?
4. What is a republic, what is a pure democracy, and how do they differ?
5. How does a republic inhibit the effects of factions, according to Madison?
Federalist 51 Questions
Answer all of the following questions. Be sure to include evidence for each answer—some require a simple quote, while others may be best supported with a series of quotes.
1. What is Madison's view of human nature and how is it incorporated into his proposals for the new American government?
2. How is the separation of powers between the three branches assured? What are the four elements of checks and balances?
3. What are the three branches of government? How is each branch checked from gaining too much power? Describe the relationship between each branch as Madison proposes.
4. Which branch appears as an exception to the normal practice of separation of powers? Why is this exception not dangerous, according to Madison? What is your view of this exception?
5. Which branch did Madison view as the weakest branch of government? Why was this acceptable to Madison? What is your view of this weakness?
6. What is the "end" (supreme goal) of government, according to Madison?