Looking for source for statement by James Madison.

[pnorman]

"James Madison, referred to by some as the “Father of the Constitution” described our system as designed with enough checks and balances so that it could be run by devils. These devils couldn’t cause us harm because these checks prevent us from having to rely on their good intentions. But now apparently that is all we have to rely upon."

http://www.projecthamad.org/blog/2007/02/05/the-devil-is-in-the-details/

It's apparently a rewording of the original, making it very difficult to Google it back to the original source. I had seen another more "authoritative" source a while back, but can't seem to find it any more.

pnorman

[Mabus]

1. My best guess: Federalist Paper 51

Federalist Paper 51--James Madison
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. 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 in the next place, oblige it to control itself.

http://www.crf-usa.org/Foundation_docs/Foundation_lesson_fedpapers.html

[pnorman]

2. Thanks! That's most likely it.

In all likelihood, the guy I had quoted above had the correct concept in his mind, but expressed it in an entirely different manner.

"Run by devils" is a lot more eye-catching, but the quote you had supplied will do for my purpose. Once again, thanks.

I LOVE my DU!

pnorman

[Mabus]

5. You're welcome

If you go to the link and search for the quote you will find, directly under the quote, the following:

For Discussion
1. Which of the following statements would Madison agree with based on his views in the above excerpt?

a. Government is necessary.
b. The people should elect government leaders who act like angels.
c. Elected government officials should be controlled by a system of "checks and balances." (Refer to your government textbook if you are not familiar with this term.

2. What would you say was Madison's general opinion of people in government: angels? devils? something else?

However, if I run across anything that resembles what you are looking for I will let you know.

I love DU for the same reason: the people.

[Virginia Dare]

3. I like your sig line.....n/t

[Mabus]

4. Thank you

It was inspired by Admiral Loinpresser and evlbstrd. I've got to stop hanging around with those guys and I would but I'm married to the Admiral and evl is one of our best friends. :banghead: