1) When James Madison writes of “factions” in his Federalist Paper #10, it brings to mind the class system that’s been at the center of our discussions this semester. While we writes in different terms, Madison is concerned that factions may form that would be a threat to the status quo. As Madison is himself a wealthy capitalist, it’s easy to draw parallels to the fears of capitalists broadly, of the labor class banding together to push back against the power wielded by the wealthy.

2) According to Federalist #10 (written by James Madison), the rights of property originate in “the diversity in the faculties of men.” That is, Madison believes that it’s a sort of exceptionalism that allows some men to amass wealth, while those of lesser ability remain poor. Therefore, the best people to govern are people who have wealth, as they’ve demonstrated an ability to reason above the average man.

3) I do not agree with Madison’s explanation of wealth and poverty. A person may be born into wealth, or they may stumble into it. What is clear, is that wealth-building tends to gain momentum over time; the more money one has, the easier it is to make more of it.

4) Madison writes that the core mission of the government is to protect the “faculties” that allow men to acquire property; generously, this is a statement on protecting the freedom/liberties that allow people self-determination and the opportunity to make their own fortunes. In practice this is more often seen as protecting the wealth already amassed by a select few. This doublespeak reflects popular opinions in our society today. Americans largely agree that people should have opportunities to improve their lives, but a lot of our laws and the actions of our government serve to entrench and protect the wealthy.

5) Madison argues for a republic over a democracy as a more stable form of governance, less likely to be swayed or turned by the will of temporary factions. While there can be some benefits to a stable, predictable government, this also favors the status quo, of course, and acts as an entrenchment of power, particularly for the wealthy class to which Madison belongs. It’s never a surprise when the people in power decide they are the best people to be in power, and thus seek to ensure its continuation as such.