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The Federalist No. 10
Causes of factions
Over the years, improvements to the new American constitution have been considered too
irrational, and citizens are still determining justice laws in favour of the minor party. A faction is
a group of citizens who are merged by a familiar surge of interests, different to the rights of the
whole community. The underlying cause of factions is destroying the liberty to its existence,
which is air to its fire (Maddison 4), essential to political life. Different opinions will inevitably
exist among citizens, which leads to controversy over important concerns such as religion and
government regimes. Unequal possessions of property in society lead to a division in opinions
and parties due to the failure of the government to allocate protection for diverse capabilities
among citizens.
Dangers of factions
The reasoning behind faction is that its causes are immutable, meaning its effects should be
managed. Madison concludes that minority groups can influence the undesired passions of the
majority, which leads to the formation of alliances that will work against public interests and
infringe on other people's rights. The distinct classes that display different sentiments make
decisions based on personal interests rather than for the public. Madison claims that justice
should be maintained in the sole regard of the public interests and that a balance between the
parties should be held. The small groups often cause violence and destruction of property
through unconstitutional demonstrations, which are insufferable by the regime and the citizens.
The likelihood of tyranny is contingent on the representation of private interest, which, if major,
can promote self-preservation to the detriment of others.
The logic behind a strong centralized government
Between 1776 and 1789, the Articles of Confederation placed control in the state governments,
and the state regime chose the delegates, each state having one vote in the Congress. Madison
debated that a substantial republic could dominate the "mischiefs of factions", and this would
equally distribute power between the government and the state. He assumed that the central
government would safeguard the vast nation from the loud minority through democracy and the
electorate. A strong central government ensures that the rights and freedoms of citizens are
protected, in disregard to personal interests. Conflict between parties is also reduced since a large
republic is involved in the nation's decision-making.
The effect of the first difference is, on the one hand, to refine and enlarge the public views by
passing them through the medium of a chosen body of citizens whose wisdom may best discern
the true interest of their country and whose patriotism and love of justice will be least likely to
sacrifice it to temporary or partial considerations (Maddison 5).
In conclusion, the remedy to ensure that common interest is upheld is a strong centralized
government that makes decisions to meet the needs of its citizens.
Work Cited
Madison, James. "The federalist no. 10." November 22.1787, 1787: 1787-88. Print.
