1. The main thing that reminds me about the concept of “faction” is of social class divisions. This can be seen through the use of factions. As the definition of a faction is described to be groups driven by specific interests that may conflict with the broader community, social classes are more represented through distinct groups that carry different interests based on economic status. The conflict that may occur between factions, like that between classes, derives from differing economic positions, which may lead to competing interests and possible conflicts to happen. Factions are known as groups united by passion or interest adverse to others, much like how classes operate with their own economic motives.

2. According to Federalist #10, the source of wealth through private property lies in the faculties (abilities and talents) of individuals. Some people possess certain faculties (skills) or capabilities that allow them to have the ability to acquire wealth, while others lack these faculties and remain poor. This diversity in an individual’s abilities can explain why some are able to own property while others do not. Madison argues that these economic divisions are apart of this society due to those with differing abilities. 

3. I personally disagree with this analysis of the differences between wealth and poverty. It suggests that the difference in a person’s wealth is their own inherent abilities to generate said wealth. That viewpoint glosses over many other factors that can contribute to economic inequality through social networks, education, or inherited wealth to name a few. Individual talent and ability are definitely factors in being able to find success, there are plenty of other factors that go into it. Many people can have that drive to succeed in life, but without the proper resources to give them that first step, they will remain in that same social class. It would be more fair to consider both individual effort and systemic barriers that cause those to not achieve their true potential. 

4. The core mission, or “first object,” of the U.S. government, according to Madison, is the priority of protection for the diverse faculties that help private property ownership.  This means that the government’s role in all of this is to guard property rights and to ensure that individuals can gain wealth in accordance to their own ability. Madison’s framing reflects the priorities of the wealthy class in 1787, who saw the government’s main function as safeguarding their economic interests, which contrasts with modern ideas about governmental responsibility.

5. I personally do not surprising that Federalist #10 favors a Republican (representative) form of government over pure democracy. Madison and the other framers of the constitution had their minds on if pure democracy would cause potential threats to the wealthy minority and allow the majority (the poor) to impose their will on them. By supporting a representative government, Madison had believed that with elected officials, he could be able to provide a buffer against the majority. This choice reflects the class dynamics of the time, where the wealthy feared the power of the masses that had the potential to disrupt their economic status.