I am taking part in the Constitutional Literacy Institute at UVU next week and they have given us valuable readings on the constitution to prepare. This link contains James Madison’s 1792 writing on property

Here are some of my thoughts from the reading.

What may sometimes be overlooked by individuals who do not have a respect of private property is the previous labor that may have gone into the acquisition of the property. There may have been unseen long days or late nights of work. There may have been gatherings missed in the development of skill or in overtime worked.

Madison claims, “a man has property in his opinions and the free communication of them.” This is indicating that an individual has the right to their free thoughts, and should not be coerced into changing them. An individual’s writing and their education are in a sense their property.

He notes the key roles of the government when it comes to property are; the protection of property and non-infringement.

Protection of Property: Madison believed that a core function of government is to protect the property of individuals in both the tangible and intangible senses. This includes safeguarding individuals’ rights to their physical possessions as well as their civil liberties.

Non-Infringement: The government should not infringe upon the property rights of individuals. Madison warned against any form of government overreach that would violate these rights.

Madison connected the concept of property with economic justice, arguing that a just government must protect the ability of individuals to acquire and retain property. This extends to economic freedoms, such as the right to pursue one’s livelihood without undue interference. It would be wise for history teachers to emphasize the writings of Madison in their classes