Question

"But quitting the dim light of historical research, and attaching ourselves purely to the dictates of reason and good sense, we shall discover much greater cause to reject than to approve the idea of plurality in the executive, under any modification whatever.

"Wherever two or more persons are engaged in any common enterprise or pursuit, there is always danger of difference of opinion.. Whenever these happen, they lessen the respectability, weaken the authority, and distract the plans and operations of those whom they divide. If they should unfortunately assail the supreme executive magistracy of a country, consisting of a plurality of persons, they might impede or frustrate the most important measures of the government in the most critical emergencies of the state. And what is still worse, they might split the community into the most violent and irreconcilable factions, adhering differently to the different individuals who composed the magistracy." Alexander Hamilton- Federalist No. 70
Which of the following best summarizes Hamilton's argument?
A. Plurality in the executive enhances respectability and authority, leading to effective governance.
B. Plurality in the executive, according to Hamilton, is a necessary safeguard against tyranny.
C. Hamilton argues against the idea of plurality in the executive, citing the potential for division, weakened authority, and factionalism.
D. Hamilton supports plurality in the executive, emphasizing its ability to ensure checks and balances in government.

Answer 1

Hamilton argues against the idea of plurality in the executive, citing the potential for division, weakened authority, and factionalism.

Step-by-step explanation:

In Federalist No. 70, Alexander Hamilton argues against the idea of plurality in the executive. He believes that having multiple individuals in power can lead to division, weakened authority, and factionalism. Hamilton points out that when people with different opinions are involved in a common enterprise, there is always a danger of disagreements and conflicts.

He further asserts that if these disagreements were to extend to the supreme executive magistracy of a country, it could impede crucial government measures in critical emergencies and even split the community into irreconcilable factions. Therefore, Hamilton rejects the idea of plurality in the executive and advises sticking to reason and good sense instead of historical research when considering this matter.