Question

The passions, therefore, not the reason, of the public would sit in judgment. But it is the reason, alone, of the public, that ought to control and regulate the government. The passions ought to be controlled and regulated by the government."

a. Advocates for passionate government control
b. Emphasizes the importance of public reason
c. Supports unregulated public passions
d. Argues against government regulation

Answer 1

The passage emphasizes that government should be regulated by public reason and control passions, reflecting historical concerns about democracy and virtues required for a stable society.

Step-by-step explanation:

The passage in question emphasizes the importance of public reason over public passions in governing a society. It argues that government should be controlled by the rational considerations of the public, not by their transient emotions or passions. The quote suggests that passionate responses can lead to judgment that is not in the best interest of the public, and that it is the role of government to regulate and control these passions to ensure a stable and just society. This is seen in various historical and theoretical contexts, from the dangers of pure democracy as highlighted in Federalist Papers to the virtues advocated by Aristotle for a well-governed regime. Reflecting on early American leadership and the need to prevent factions, the conversation points to the necessity of having an elected body of citizens who may refine the public views for the country's true interest.