Alexander Hamilton’s First Federalist Paper -- Federalist Papers

Alexander Hamiltons First Federalist PaperAlexander Hamiltons first Federalist Paper endorses ratification of the proposed constitution. His unifying point is that the use of footingin the form of the peoples reflection and choice leave behind lead to the legality, whereas their use of passion will lead to ruin. Hamilton attempts to persuade his readers to make the correct termination by reminding them of the sheer importance of the matter. He suggests that good men will want to make the correct choice in light of their true interests (33), slice the adversaries of the Constitution will be ruled by passions, deceit, and even weak minds. He frankly warns his readers against any impressions other than those which may result from the evidence of truth (35) he offers them a chance to join him on the right side of the issue, which he implies he has arrived at by knowledgeable deliberation. Fin eachy, Hamilton courts his audience by implying that they will use reason to reach the truth . By contrast, the opponents of the Constitution rely on their emotions and follow a much more certain road to the introduction of one-man rule (35). In the first paragraph, Hamilton introduces the idea of truthnot in passing, but by asking whether good government from reflection and choice is at all possible (33). He indicates that the decision is of greater importance than just one country the wrong decision would deserve to be considered as the general accident of mankind (33). By broadening the implications of the question at hand, depicting it as of the first magnitude to society (34), and describing the Constitution as the safest course for your liberty, your dignity, and your happiness (36) and brotherly to the discovery of truth ... ... is a compliment to his readers minds. He uses words like consideration, frankly acknowledge to you, and I propose (36) to illustrate the rationalism he expects to function with them. Hamilton uses imagery and rhetorical language effectiv ely in order to discredit his adversaries in the eyes of the people. His main tool is a rationalistic truth which he detaches from his opponents and associates with himself. He also portrays truth religiously, and connects the Constitution and its supporters with the highest cause. Hamilton passionately defends and elevates the peoples use of reason. But he equally passionately believes that the peoples reason is admirable only when it leads to the conclusion that the United States needs a strong, vigorous, central government. Source CitedThe Federalist Papers, ed. Clinton Rossiter New York Penguin Books, 1961