1. Chapter 10 THE PRESIDENT: Governing in Uncertain Times Theory/Philosophical Focus: Federalist #51 © 2011 Taylor & Francis

2. Introduction In Federalist #51, Madison counters the anti- Federalist’s arguments against the proposed Constitution. Madison examines the design (structure) of government A government relies upon people, through a representative structure, to interpret their own Constitution. An institutional framework is necessary to assure the stability of the regime. © 2011 Taylor & Francis

3. Parchment Barriers (Separation of Powers) Madison establishes three principles for the institutional design of the national government: Each department shall have a “will of its own” There should be as little dependence on state office and officials as possible Each department must have power of self-defense (checks and balances) © 2011 Taylor & Francis

4. First General Principle Each department shall have a “will of its own” Executive: the power of enforcement (the sword) Legislature: based on bicameralism (2 Houses): Senate: deliberation House: will of the people Judiciary: neither the will nor the sword—reason! Therefore, you cannot have one branch appoint another. There is a necessity for checks and balances, which is discussed later. © 2011 Taylor & Francis

5. Second General Principle There should be as little dependence on state offices and officials as possible. The national government and state legislatures will operate in different spheres of government. States will concern themselves with domestic affairs in times of peace. The national government will deal with issues of defense and protect interstate and international trade. © 2011 Taylor & Francis

6. Third General Principle Each department must have power of self- defense (checks and balances). “Ambition must counteract ambition.” © 2011 Taylor & Francis

7. Example of checks and balances

8. Good Government Consequently, a mixture of an informed citizenry and parchment barriers will lead to and sustain good government! In turn, the following components are necessary to achieve this desired end: A limited government Include men of good character Federalism: shared powers Stresses the importance of distinguishing between: “real public opinion—based upon reason “other” opinions—based upon passions and desires © 2011 Taylor & Francis

9. Good Government Madison recognizes that only in a free government may we think for ourselves. Thus, we must bring a multiplicity of sects (factions) together to join private and public interests to promote the public interest (common good). © 2011 Taylor & Francis

10. Conclusion Madison recognizes factions He believes that an informed citizenry and a specifically designed government will support freedom and uphold moral standards and cultural mores. Education will instill habits that will provide for a virtuous citizenry. In turn, adherence to Madison’s three general principles would increase the probability of a stable republic. © 2011 Taylor & Francis