The Political Philosophy of James Madison
by Garrett Ward Sheldon
This book wouldn’t really appeal to anyone unless he particularly wants to study President Madison, or if she wants to know more about one of the primary authors of the Constitution. That being said, The Political Philosophy of James Madison is a pretty short book, so it isn’t the most thorough book in the world.
Garrett Ward Sheldon gives a concise reasoning behind Madison’s motivations of his writings in the Federalist Papers and the Constitution. Just like all of us, our background and the way we were raised plays a role in our world views. Madison was raised in a religious household, and he stayed religious all throughout his life, which can be seen influencing his politics. He took a Calvinist view and often thought human nature held more bad than good, so it makes sense that he would stick up for states’ rights, afraid the government might abuse its power.
All in all, it’s an interesting, if short, book. I’d look at it as a starter to learning about James Madison. If you like it, you might want to read a more thorough book about him.
Garrett Ward Sheldon gives a concise reasoning behind Madison’s motivations of his writings in the Federalist Papers and the Constitution. Just like all of us, our background and the way we were raised plays a role in our world views. Madison was raised in a religious household, and he stayed religious all throughout his life, which can be seen influencing his politics. He took a Calvinist view and often thought human nature held more bad than good, so it makes sense that he would stick up for states’ rights, afraid the government might abuse its power.
All in all, it’s an interesting, if short, book. I’d look at it as a starter to learning about James Madison. If you like it, you might want to read a more thorough book about him.