There are certain social principles in human nature, from which we may draw the most solid conclusions with respect to the conduct of individuals and of communities. We love our families more than our neighbors; we love our neighbors more than our countrymen in general. The human affections, like solar heat, lose their intensity as they depart from the centre… On these principles, the attachment of the individual will be first and for ever secured by the State governments. They will be a mutual protection and support.
Year: 1788
This quote is from – Speech at the New York Ratifying Convention