The Federalist Papers

Why Big Government College

The federalist theory behind an increase in the size and power of the federal government is backed by three main ideas: the power to actually enforce the laws equally. the protection and safety of the states from physical conflict as well as ideological faction, and the economic advantages of a cohesive, unified government. A small government would not be able to maintain order, would create conflict between the states, and have little power internationally and economically. One of the principal challenges to government, faction, Madison believes to be inevitable because there will always be people with differing opinions, so the cause of faction can’t be stopped. The result of faction also can’t be stopped either because this would violate people’s freedoms and liberty. Madison believes a large federal government will help control faction when it does arise. This coincides with his theory about representation, as he proposes a large enough number of representatives to ensure that the legislature is not swayed so easily by popular opinion (faction) as it would be in a small government, adding that the more people involved in electing representatives of the country, the more likely it is that good men will be elected. However,...

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