Overview
This lecture explains Federalist 51, a foundational document for AP Government, focusing on how separation of powers and checks and balances protect liberty.
Human Nature and Government
- Madison argues government is necessary because people are not angels and need restraint.
- Government is needed to control both the governed and itself to protect liberty.
Separation of Powers
- Power in government must be divided among separate branches (legislative, executive, judicial).
- Each branch should be structurally independent, with minimal involvement in appointing other branches’ members.
- Powers of each branch should be as equal and independent as possible.
Checks and Balances
- Each branch of government can check the powers of the others to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful.
- Examples: Executive can veto laws, legislative can impeach officials, judiciary can rule actions unconstitutional.
- This system provides a “double security” for protecting liberty.
Dividing Legislative Power
- The legislative branch holds significant power since it represents the people.
- To prevent legislative dominance, Congress is divided into two chambers: House and Senate (bicameral legislature).
- Each chamber is chosen by different methods and acts independently.
Federalism
- Government power is not only divided among branches but also between national and state governments (federalism).
- Power is dispersed across multiple levels to further protect liberty.
Factions and Ambition
- Madison warns about the dangers of factions (interest groups).
- More factions make it harder for any single group to dominate.
- “Ambition must be made to counteract ambition”—competition between interests preserves liberty.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Separation of Powers — Division of government powers among legislative, executive, and judicial branches.
- Checks and Balances — System where each branch restrains the powers of the others.
- Bicameral Legislature — A two-chamber legislative body (House and Senate).
- Federalism — Division of power between national and state governments.
- Factions — Groups united by a common interest.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review Federalist 51 for examples of separation of powers and checks and balances.
- Study the structure and functions of Congress, the executive, and the judiciary.
- Prepare for questions on how federalism protects liberty.