In Federalist 51, ambition refers to the human desire for power and influence that can be channeled to check the ambitions of others in different government branches.
The concept of using ambition to counter ambition is the psychological foundation of checks and balances, explaining why separation of powers can work in practice.
Ambition in this context isn't necessarily negative—it's a realistic understanding of human nature that makes constitutional design effective.
The concept of using ambition to counter ambition is the psychological foundation of checks and balances, explaining why separation of powers can work in practice.
Ambition in this context isn't necessarily negative—it's a realistic understanding of human nature that makes constitutional design effective.