"Federalist 51"
by James Madison
Justice is the end of government. It is the end of civil society. It ever has been and ever will be pursued until it be obtained, or until liberty be lost in the pursuit. In a society under the forms of which the stronger faction can readily unite and oppress the weaker, anarchy may as truly be said to reign as in a state of nature, where the weaker individual is not secured against the violence of the stronger; and as, in the latter state, even the stronger individuals are prompted, by the uncertainty of their condition, to submit to a government which may protect the weak as well as themselves; so, in the former state, will the more powerful factions or parties be gradually induced, by a like motive, to wish for a government which will protect all parties, the weaker as well as the more powerful.
Federalist Papers No. 51 (1788) by James Madison
Common Sense
by Thomas Paine
For were the impulses of conscience clear, uniform, and irresistibly obeyed, man would need no other lawgiver; but that not being the case, he finds it necessary to surrender up a part of his property to furnish means for the protection of the rest; and this he is induced to do by the same prudence which in every other case advises him out of two evils to choose the least. Wherefore, security being the true design and end of government, it unanswerably follows that whatever form thereof appears most likely to ensure it to us, with the least experience and greatest benefit, is preferable to all others.
"Common Sense" by Thomas Paine
Question
Use these passages from “The Federalist Papers” and “Common Sense” to answer the question.
What similar idea about the purpose of government is presented in the passages?
(1 point)
Responses
to protect a nation no matter the cost
to protect a nation no matter the cost
to equally protect the rights of all citizens
to equally protect the rights of all citizens
to guarantee an ethical leader is in charge
to guarantee an ethical leader is in charge
to ensure the weak and poor prosper
1 answer
The similar idea about the purpose of government presented in the passages from “The Federalist Papers” and “Common Sense” is:
to equally protect the rights of all citizens.
Both authors express the importance of a government that ensures justice and protection for both the stronger and weaker factions within society.
