ABSTRACT
Many interpretations of Madison ascribe to him a Hobbesian view of human nature that posits human beings who act solely from selfish motives, are incapable of understanding the interests of others, fear domination by others, and lust after power for themselves. Passages in Federalist 10 and 51 and some of his other writings lend support to this interpretation. There is a superficial plausibility to labeling Madison's conception of human nature Hobbesian, but close analysis of his work demonstrates the contrary. His argument is premised on a variable human nature among and within individuals. The link between a variable human nature and the functioning of government is the key to understanding Madison defense of the institutional arrangements established by the Constitution. Seeing in Madison the arguments of David Hume, Wills contends that he had an "optimistic view of human nature" and understood the constitutional system in this light.
