James Madison drafted the Constitution, sponsored the Bill of Rights, co-wrote the Federalist Papers, and was the fourth U.S. President.

Madison was one of the more centered figures in early American politics. Standing only 5′ 4” – 5′ 6” Madison wasn’t the tallest President (that is Lincoln) or founding father (think that was Washington), but he did contribute more to America in terms of the principles and structure underlying the Republic than any person in American history. Unlike most of his peers, Madison supported both Federalist and Anti-Federalist principles, however, when push came to shove, he ran as a Democratic-Republican (an offshoot of the anti-Federalists).

What is Reason?

Reason is the application of “pure logic”, empirical evidence, experiment, and skepticism to find truths, facts, and theories (AKA “critical thinking”).

Separation of Powers and Checks and Balances

Separation of Powers

Separation of Powers describes the way in which government is divided into different branches (ex. in the U.S., the legislative, executive, and judicial). Checks and balances describe the powers each branch has to “check” the other branches and ensure a balance of power.