James Madison Quotes
What influence in fact have ecclesiastical establishments had on Civil Society? In some instances they have been seen to erect a spiritual tyranny on the ruins of the Civil authority; in many instances they have been seen upholding the thrones of political tyranny: in no instance have they been seen the guardians of the liberties of the people. Rulers who wished to subvert the public liberty, may have found an established Clergy convenient auxiliaries. A just Government instituted to secure & perpetuate it needs them not.
This quotation is one of the most powerful indictments of religion in the political sphere. Historically, religions have supported the status quo in political society even. However, individual clerics have been in the forefront of many if not most of the movements toward freedom and democracy. For example, American religious institutions general supported slavery and legal discrimination thereafter, yet clerics were major abolutionists and major contributors to the Civil Rights Movement. Even today, American churches are the most racially segregated institutions left in America. See {620780} for his view on Christianity in particular.
James Madison, 1751-1836, 4th President of the United States (Democratic Republican, VA), Memorial and Remonstrance Against Religious Assessments, 1785
Sourced by: Eigen's Political and Historical Quotations
Note that Madison’s criticism of Christianity is not theological, but humanistic and political. See {620779} for his view on religion in general.
Commenting on the concept of democracy and it's lack of Biblical justification:
Although James’ mother, Mary Queen of Scots had been a Catholic, James was a fervent Protestant. However, he found the separation of the State from authority over the church and the Presbyterian approach not to his liking. Also, the early tradition of the Presbyterian preachers scolding the monarch, especially his mother, was uncomfortable for James.
- Born: March 16, 1751
- Died: June 28, 1836
- Nationality: American
- Profession: President
James Madison Jr. was an American statesman, diplomat, expansionist, philosopher, and Founding Father who served as the fourth president of the United States from 1809 to 1817. He is hailed as the "Father of the Constitution" for his pivotal role in drafting and promoting the Constitution of the United States and the United States Bill of Rights. He co-wrote The Federalist Papers, co-founded the Democratic-Republican Party, and served as the fifth United States Secretary of State from 1801 to 1809.
