What reasons did the Framers have for distrusting Direct Democracy?

The Framers of the Constitution were particularly wary of direct democracy primarily due to the impracticalities involved and their concerns regarding the potential rise of demagogues. They understood that direct democracy could lead to hasty decisions, where the popular will might overshadow rigorous debate and careful consideration of complex issues. The Framers believed that without a structured system of checks and balances, emotional or charismatic leaders could manipulate public opinion to gain power, leading to instability and potentially destructive policies.

They emphasized the importance of a representative democracy, where elected officials could filter the interests of the populace through a more measured, informed, and deliberative process. This approach was seen as a safeguard against the volatility of direct democracy, which could threaten the rights of minority groups and challenge the stability of the government itself. By establishing a republic where elected representatives make decisions, the Framers aimed to protect the rights of individuals and ensure a more stable governance structure.