James Madison's time in both state and federal government shaped his view of the American populace. He believed that "the people" were not a unified, altruistic group but rather a complex assembly of competing factions, each driven by their own interests and regional concerns. This awareness of social fragmentation led Madison to recognize the potential dangers posed by demagogues who could exploit these divisions for their own partisan goals.

Madison's insights underscored his perspective on governance and the necessity of a strong framework to manage factionalism. He advocated for a system that could mediate the competing interests within society, aiming to create a balance that would prevent any one faction from dominating the political landscape. In his view, a well-structured government was essential for maintaining stability amidst the diverse interests that characterize a democratic society.