Question

before the constitutional convention, james madison and alexander hamilton studied history, politics, and philosophy to learn about effective governments throughout history. their studies influenced their discussions in the convention and helped shape the u.s. constitution. in the federalist papers, madison and hamilton describe the relationship between government and human nature, meaning human character and behavior. the following passages come from two of the essays: numbers 15 and 51. use the passages to answer the question below. federalist no. 15 why has government been instituted at all? because the passions of men will not conform to the dictates of reason and justice, without constraint. dictates: principles constraint: limitation federalist no. 51 but what is government itself, but the greatest of all reflections on human nature? if men were angels, no government would be necessary. angels: perfect, unselfish beings based on the passages, why is government necessary? it provides instruction so individuals and society can become perfect. it removes restrictions so people can behave as they wish. it places limits on peoples selfishness so they can behave justly.

Explanation:

The passages state that without constraint, men's passions won't conform to reason and justice, and if men were perfect (angels), no government would be needed. So government is needed to limit people's self - centered behavior for just behavior.

Answer:

It places limits on people's selfishness so they can behave justly.