James Madison wrote Federalist No. 10, published November 22, 1787, to defend the U.S. Constitution by arguing that a large republic could control factions better than small democracies.
Parties are Factions
Factions—defined as groups united by passion or interest adverse to others’ rights—arise inevitably as a symptom of the human condition, property, and opinions.
Extend the Sphere
Madison’s key idea was to “extend the sphere” and expand the republic’s size and population—to dilute factional dangers.
In small societies, fewer parties form majorities easily that oppress minorities.
A large republic includes more diverse interests.
Those cross-interests are a feature, not a bug.
Human Capital Supply Chain
Enfranchising more makes it less likely for harmful majorities to unify. It is also more challenging to coordinate across long distances.
One advantage of a bigger republic is a wider pool of qualified representatives.
It reduced corruption risks since candidates needed to appeal to more voters.
Not a Democracy
A large republic is the same as a true democracy.
Strongly held, widely backed, and impulsive opinions and values which upheld the social contract are filtered through elected delegates.
Those representative prioritize national welfare over local biases.
Helping The Others™ is Selfish
Enfranchising The Others™ is parallel with institutionalizing federalism to handle local issues.
Extending the sphere structure—to include The Others™—helps secures liberty.
Faction effects should be controlled without eliminating causes like liberty or inequality.
It’s worth a shot.
