Date Presented

Spring 4-2026

Document Type

Thesis

First Advisor

Dr. Stephen Dawson

Second Advisor

Dr. Lorna Dawson

Third Advisor

Dr. Elizabeth Sharrett

Abstract

Political philosophy has always concerned itself with what is just, what makes a just ruler, and a just regime. John Locke, James Madison, and Brutus all concern themselves with this same question. John Locke, through consent of the governed, separation of powers, and an optimistic understanding of human nature, provides a political theory that understands what a just political regime should look like. His contributions to political philosophy as an English philosopher are credited with inspiring the American Founders to adopt a republican regime. Locke was able to accomplish groundbreaking political theory in The Second Treatise of Government, and inspired many with his foundational political society. Locke’s theory inspired the basis of the United States, influencing both James Madison, who was a Federalist, and the Anti-Federalists. Locke’s influence can be seen in both The Federalist Papers, which were written by James Madison, and in the Brutus Letters from the Anti-Federalists. Locke’s theory is seen in how both Madison and the Brutus argue in favor of a republican regime that understands the importance of the consent of the governed, upholding the natural rights of citizens, and separation of powers. Though the core principles of the regime are agreed upon, the Federalists and Anti-Federalists disagreed vehemently on the implementation of these theories. There was a large trust gap between the Founders when it came to the execution of these main principles. James Madison argued that a large republic would be best suited for upholding the basis of Locke’s beliefs while still combating an abuse of power and the tyranny of the majority. Madison's precautions of a more sophisticated separation of powers, a composite government, and a cautious view of human nature all work together in his political theory to perform the ultimate goal of political life. Limiting governmental power enough that it is still powerful to meet the end of political life, but not so powerful that it extends beyond the scope of individual rights. Brutus deeply contested this view that Madison held. They saw a strong centralized government as a precursor to tyranny. The Anti-Federalists, specifically Brutus, felt as though the Constitution was too powerful and did not give enough consideration to the states. While both Madison and the Anti-Federalists’ beliefs were based in Locke’s political theory, their differences over the size of the republic and the concentration of a central government show the need for further safeguards against tyranny. James Madison demonstrates through a difference in beliefs on human nature that John Locke’s safeguards against tyranny are not sufficient. James Madison's notions of auxiliary precautions through expanding the scope of the republic to dilute the formation of majority factions and implementing a composite government that is rooted in federalism are sufficient to ward against tyranny. I am to demonstrate that James Madison effectively addresses the Brutus' concerns about centralized power by using the Bill of Rights as the final safeguard against tyranny.

Download

Share

COinS