"To suppose that any form of government will secure liberty or happiness without any virtue in the people, is a chimerical idea"

In this quote, James Madison is revealing his belief that a federal government alone can not ensure freedom and happiness for its residents. He argues that individuals themselves should have certain virtues in order for a federal government to be effective in promoting liberty and joy. Madison is recommending that it is the responsibility of the residents to promote these virtues, such as honesty, integrity, and civic duty, in order for a government to function effectively. Without these virtues, any effort at creating a perfect government would be futile. This quote acts as a pointer that the success of a federal government eventually depends upon the character and actions of its people.