In Federalist 10, James Madison uses the term ‘faculties’ in a broad sense. While it does include property rights, it also encompasses a wider range of human capabilities and attributes. Madison’s definition of ‘faculties’ goes beyond just the ownership of property to include individual talents, opinions, and liberties.
Madison argues that the diversity in the faculties of men is the primary cause of the formation of different interests and parties in society. These faculties are not limited to economic aspects but also include intellectual and moral capacities. He emphasizes that protecting these diverse faculties is essential for maintaining a free and just society.
Therefore, when Madison refers to ‘faculties,’ he is indeed speaking broadly. His definition includes not only property rights but also the full spectrum of human abilities, views, and individual liberties. This broad understanding is crucial for comprehending his arguments about the nature of factions and the necessity of a large republic to manage the effects of these diverse interests.