Read the following excerpt from James Madison's Federalist No. 10:

Question

"The effects of the various factions must be mitigated by a large republic, where diverse interests can counterbalance each other and protect the rights of the minority against the majority. This is essential for ensuring that no single faction can dominate or infringe upon the rights of others."
In a paragraph and your own words, explain how Madison thinks a large republic helps protect both individual rights and the general welfare. How does this idea help prevent the majority from unfairly overpowering minorities? (4 point question)

Answer 1

James Madison believes that a large republic is vital for safeguarding both individual rights and the common good because it allows for a multitude of diverse interests and factions to coexist. In such a system, different groups can counterbalance one another, making it difficult for any single faction to gain too much power or impose its will on others. This dynamic helps ensure that the rights of minority groups are protected against the potential tyranny of the majority, as the presence of various competing interests leads to compromise and collaboration. Consequently, a large republic fosters an environment where the general welfare can be achieved through mutual respect and negotiation, rather than dominance by a single group.