Question

Is Madison's opinion of the role of self-interest in the conduct of one's life realistic? Why or why not?

Answer 1

Madison's opinion of the role of self-interest in one's life is realistic as it can be harnessed for the betterment of society and individuals can balance self-interest with concern for others.

Step-by-step explanation:

Madison's opinion of the role of self-interest in the conduct of one's life can be seen as realistic. He believed that self-interest could be harnessed to improve government and society, rather than leading to corruption.

A key aspect of Madison's argument is that self-interest does not necessarily mean acting only in one's own narrow self-interest. People can focus on their self-interest in economic decisions, such as negotiating for a raise, while also setting aside their narrow self-interest to help others in different aspects of life.

This understanding aligns with Adam Smith's perspective, who recognized that although individuals are often self-interested, they also possess principles that make them interested in the well-being of others.

Answer 2

YES it is realistic

This is because there's a reason why we need to be governed ourselves because we abuse power because of self interest

Explanation

James Madison is the one who wrote the first drafts of the constitution of the United States. He co-wrote the Federalist Papers and sponsored the bill of Rights. He played a very importance role in contributing to the overall creation of the constitution. And by this he was considered as the Father of Constitution.

James Madison was of the opinion that that in a small society the people can be "perfectly equalized, and assimilated in their possessions, their opinions, and their passions. He was very much against the abuse of power because of individuals interest.