Federalist No. 10

Madison makes it clear that the purposes of the federal government, or the union, the union of all the states is beneficial because it will best control the effects of "factions."  Today we call the "special interests" but the meaning is the same.

What Madison is stating is that having an organized government with separation of power, a system of checks and balances, on all major decisions makes for equality.  No one group has all the power.  It makes it harder for factions to dominate.  There are less chances for people with a common motive to invade the rights of other citizens.

I chose this passage because I believe that separation of power is the best way to go.  Some people may have hidden agendas.  Not all people with power has everyone's best interest at heart.  Checks and balances works. Certain issues need to be debated amongst different individuals before making a final decision.

Federalist No. 51

The diversity of society will reduce the influence of factions.  This is called "Pluralism."  Whilst all authority in it will be derived from the dependent on society, the society itself will be broken into so many parts, interest, and classes of citizens, that the rights of the individuals, or of the minority, will be in little danger from interested combinations of the majority.

Madison is stating that because officials are elected into office by citizens of different states, from all class of people, with different interest provides for more diversity.  There is no one common goal.  This allows for individual to have fair rights.  The minority will not be out weighed by the common interest of the majority.

I chose this passage because I believe there is so much diversity in the world and the only way for everyone to have a voice is to be involved somehow. The idea of having diversity in government, I too feel will allow for individuals a better chance at equal rights.