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Difficulty: EasyFederalist No. 10 vs. Brutus No. 1

In the early American debate over the ratification of the United States Constitution, the authors of Federalist No. 10 and Brutus No. 1 held opposing views on the ideal scale of a republican government. Which of the following statements best contrasts their arguments regarding the impact of a large republic on political factions and governance?

  1. Federalist No. 10 argues that a large republic controls the effects of factions by making it difficult for a majority to coordinate and oppress others, whereas Brutus No. 1 argues that a large republic will lead to clashing interests that obstruct the government's ability to rule.Answer
  2. B
    Federalist No. 10 argues that a large republic is dangerous because representatives will be too far removed from the people, whereas Brutus No. 1 argues that a large republic is necessary to protect the union from foreign threats.
  3. C
    Federalist No. 10 argues that factions can be eliminated by outlawing political parties, whereas Brutus No. 1 argues that factions are protected by the Tenth Amendment.
  4. D
    Federalist No. 10 argues that a participatory democracy in small communities is the best way to prevent tyranny, whereas Brutus No. 1 argues that an elite democracy is required for a large nation.

Answer

Federalist No. 10 argues that a large republic controls the effects of factions by making it difficult for a majority to coordinate and oppress others, whereas Brutus No. 1 argues that a large republic will lead to clashing interests that obstruct the government's ability to rule.
The correct answer accurately contrasts the two perspectives: Federalist No. 10 asserts that a larger republic encompasses a greater variety of parties and interests, making it less likely that a majority faction will form and oppress the minority. In contrast, Brutus No. 1 contends that a large republic will lead to constant clash and delay, preventing the legislature from making effective decisions for the common good.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the core argument of Federalist No. 10 regarding the size of the republic.
Madison argues that a large republic is beneficial because a greater variety of parties and interests makes it less likely that a majority faction will form and violate the rights of other citizens.
This establishes the Federalist perspective on how the scale of the union controls factions.
2
Identify the core argument of Brutus No. 1 regarding the size of the republic.
The Anti-Federalist author of Brutus No. 1 argues that a large republic will have too many conflicting interests, leading to constant gridlock, and that representatives will become disconnected from their constituents.
This establishes the Anti-Federalist warning about a large republic's inefficiency and threat to representation.
3
Evaluate the options to find the correct contrast.
The statement contrasting Madison's view on controlling factions with Brutus's warning about clashing interests is correct, while the other options mischaracterize the authors' views or swap their arguments.
This confirms the correct option based on the textual arguments of both documents.

Key Concept

Comparison of Federalist No. 10 and Brutus No. 1 on the scale of republic and factions
Estimated Time:1m 0s
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Topics

Federalist No. 10 vs. Brutus No. 1

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