"There is no maxim, in my opinion, which is more liable to be misapplied, and which, therefore, more needs elucidation, than the current one, that the interest of the majority is the political standard of right and wrong"

In this quote, James Madison is revealing his belief that the concept that the bulk's interests should dictate what is considered ideal and wrong in politics is often misconstrued and misused. He argues that this idea requires further description and clarification, as it can easily be controlled and cause unjustified decisions. Madison is warning versus blindly following the will of the majority without thinking about the prospective effects and implications. He believes that this maxim must not be trusted and instead, need to be carefully examined and analyzed in order to ensure reasonable and just governance.