Question

Read the famous quote by James Madison, Then, Translate it into your own words, making it in modern English

1. “If Men were angels, no government would be necessary.
2. If angels were to govern men, neither external nor internal controls on government would be necessary.
3. In framing a government which is to be administered by men over men, the great difficulty lies in this: you must first enable the government to control the governed; and the next place, oblige it to control itself.”

Answer 1

1. If men could be trusted and knowledgeable, a government to responsibly take care of them would be necessary. Madison wanted a strong central government.

2. If all were able, central or state government wouldn’t be needed but people need to be led.

3. A government needs to be powered and controlled by the people, while making sure the government can forcibly control the people, but limit its power as to avoid complete control.