We explore Federalist Papers 47 and 48 with Dr. Sean Beinberg, examining Madison's sophisticated understanding of separation of powers and the subtle distinction between separated powers and checks and balances.
• Dr. Beienberg identifies these papers as among the most important Federalist writings
• Madison responds to critics who claimed the Constitution had poor separation of powers
• Tyranny defined as concentration of powers, regardless of whether in one, few, or many hands
• Madison argues tyranny can exist even in a popularly elected democracy if powers aren't separated
• Separation requires giving each branch control over others, not complete division
• "Parchment barriers" aren't enough - branches need actual mechanisms to check each other
• Madison's fear of legislative power relates specifically to state constitutions after the Revolution
• Federalist 48 also provides a framework for when to fear executive overreach
• Contemporary politics may actually match Madison's conditions for dangerous executive power
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