[robertpaulsen]

"When Madison says "negative and preventive" rather than "positive purposes", does it mean "positive purposes" is also an acceptable choice?"

No, it means that "positive purposes" is a choice, just not the best choice to describe the reasons behind the interstate commerce clause.

This does not mean that the interstate commerce clause cannot be used for the positive purposes -- it can and it is. It just means that "for positive purposes" does not best describe the original reason why the interstate commerce clause came about.

[Ken H]

Well, when St. Pete asks you to explain Proverbs 8:10, I'd stick with the story that silver is not an acceptable choice, rather than tell him you can have silver AND instruction.

You're welcome.