David Hume, whose writings would help shape the .S. Constitution, was born in Edinburgh, Scotland, on this day in 1711.  Hume, who died in August 1776 just as the American Revolution was beginning, wrote an essay titled "Idea of a Perfect Commonwealth."  James Madison, considered the "Father of the Constitution," studied Hume's writings and wanted to avoid a system of government where the majority would ignore the opposition.  Hume believed the only way to control such special interests was to create small republics where the common interests of all would be protected.  Madison rejected Hume's logic and advocated the formation of a large republic where no one special interest could motivate the majority to subjugate the minority.

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