The smaller the society, the fewer probably will be the distinct parties and interests composing it . . the more easily will they concert and execute their plans of oppression. extend the sphere, and you take in a greater variety of parties and interests. – james madison, the federalist papers what is the main idea in this passage? in a small society, few citizens participate in government. a more diverse society allows more interests to be heard. a smaller society is more likely to protect against oppression. a larger society is less diverse and has fewer interests.