Question

What particular problem is the topic of the essay and what is the author’s main contention about how the Constitution addresses this problem?

A. The problem of factionalism; the author contends that the Constitution provides a system of representative government that mitigates the negative effects of factions.
B. The problem of executive power; the author contends that the Constitution establishes a system of checks and balances to prevent the abuse of executive power.
C. The problem of state sovereignty; the author contends that the Constitution establishes a strong federal government that limits the power of individual states.
D. The problem of judicial independence; the author contends that the Constitution provides for an independent judiciary that safeguards against political interference.

Answer 1

The essays, particularly Federalist No. 10 by James Madison, address the issue of factionalism and advocate for the Constitution's establishment of a representative government as a solution to mitigate the effects of factions. The correct option is A.

Step-by-step explanation:

The particular problem discussed in the essays is the problem of factionalism. The author's main contention is that the Constitution provides a system of representative government that mitigates the negative effects of factions.

Based on James Madison's argument in Federalist No. 10, he believed that factions, groups of people who protect and promote their special economic interests and political opinions, often acted against the public interest. However, the Constitution's establishment of a government capable of controlling factional violence and damage offered a solution to the issue.

Madison's perspective was that a large republic would encourage compromises and representation, and consequently, a system of representative government would be equipped to manage the problem of factions effectively.