Discuss Madison's views on factions, as expressed in The ...

[Kthamas]

Discuss Madison's views on factions, as expressed in The Federalist, No. 10, and how he would respond to the tremendous growth in the number of interest groups actively lobbying in Washington, D.C., over the past several decades.
 
  Answer:

Question 2

What did James Madison mean when he used the phrase mischiefs of faction? How does the Constitution attempt to limit these mischiefs?
 
  Answer:

[katieost]

Answer to Question 1

An ideal response will:
1. Explain that Madison was distrustful of factions, defined as groups pursuing their own interest at the expense of the broader public good.
2. Explain that Madison believed that factions must be allowed, but that government could be designed so that no single faction becomes too dominant.
3. Provide a logical position that Madison might take in light of the preceding points. For instance, he would likely be disheartened by the proliferation of groups, but still adamant that they should be able to exist.

Answer to Question 2

An ideal response will:
1. Explain what mischiefs of faction are. Factions are political parties and interest groups. The mischiefs of faction refers to the idea of a faction dominating government.
2. Describe the ways the Constitution limits the mischiefs. Include the separation of powers and checks and balances and how the Constitution encourages competition between factions. The term pluralism should be used.