According to Madison, why is the House of Representatives expected to exhibit instability?

Prepare for the Texas AandM University POLS206 American National Government Test. Engage with interactive flashcards and multiple choice questions, each loaded with detailed explanations. Excel in your exam!

James Madison viewed the House of Representatives as a body that would reflect the immediate and changing sentiments of the populace, contributing to its instability. This instability is largely attributed to two key factors: the size of the House and the frequency with which its members are elected.

With a larger number of representatives, the House can be more susceptible to shifts in public opinion, as a wider array of voices and interests are represented. The regularity of elections, occurring every two years, means that members are continually accountable to their constituents, leading them to prioritize immediate concerns over long-term stability. This dynamic fosters an environment in which the legislative body is more reactive to public moods and trends, promoting an atmosphere of instability compared to the more deliberative Senate, where terms are longer, and members are less frequently challenged for their positions.

The other options do not accurately capture Madison's perspective on the characteristics of the House. For instance, the idea that it is distant from the populace contradicts Madison's belief that representatives are meant to be closely connected to their constituents. Additionally, the notion of focusing solely on long-term legislation overlooks the House's responsiveness to current issues, while the suggestion of elitism does not align with Madison's vision of a representative democracy, which he aimed

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