Key Takeaways
1. Government is a Necessary Evil, Society a Blessing
Society in every state is a blessing, but government even in its best state is but a necessary evil.
Two distinct entities. Society arises from our needs and desires for connection, while government stems from our imperfections and the need for order. Society unites us through affection, while government restrains our vices through laws. One is a patron, the other a punisher.
Government's purpose. Government is a necessary evil because it is a consequence of our inability to govern ourselves through moral virtue alone. It is a badge of lost innocence, a reminder that we need external rules to maintain order. The best government is one that provides security with the least expense and greatest benefit.
- Government is like dress, a badge of lost innocence.
- Palaces of kings are built on the ruins of paradise.
Society's role. Society is a natural and positive force that brings people together for mutual benefit. It is the foundation upon which government is built, but it is not the same thing. Society is a blessing, while government is a necessary evil.
2. Simplicity is Key to Effective Government
I draw my idea of the form of government from a principle in nature, which no art can overturn, viz. that the more simple any thing is, the less liable it is to be disordered.
Complexity breeds chaos. The more complex a system is, the more prone it is to disorder and the harder it is to repair. Simple systems are easier to understand, manage, and fix when problems arise. This principle applies to government as much as to any other system.
English Constitution critique. The English constitution, with its mix of monarchy, aristocracy, and republican elements, is too complex and prone to dysfunction. It is a patchwork of ancient tyrannies and new republican materials, making it difficult to identify and fix problems.
- The King is a remnant of monarchical tyranny.
- The Peers are a remnant of aristocratic tyranny.
- The Commons are the new republican materials.
Simple government ideal. A simple government is one that is easy to understand, easy to operate, and easy to repair. It is a government that is based on clear principles and that is not burdened by unnecessary complexity.
3. Monarchy is Unnatural and Unbiblical
Government by kings was first introduced into the world by the Heathens, from whom the children of Israel copied the custom.
Equality at creation. Mankind was created equal, and the distinction between kings and subjects is an artificial one. There is no natural or religious justification for one person to be elevated above all others. Male and female are distinctions of nature, good and bad are distinctions of heaven, but kings and subjects are not.
Biblical disapproval. The Bible, particularly the stories of Gideon and Samuel, shows that God disapproves of government by kings. The Jews' desire for a king was a rejection of God's rule. Monarchy is ranked in scripture as one of the sins of the Jews.
- Gideon refused to be king, saying "The Lord shall rule over you."
- Samuel warned the people of the evils of kingship.
Monarchy's flaws. Monarchy is a system that promotes idolatry and elevates a single person to an unnatural position of power. It is a system that is prone to corruption and abuse. The title of "sacred majesty" applied to a king is impious.
4. Hereditary Succession is Absurd and Unjust
For all men being originally equals, no one by birth could have a right to set up his own family in perpetual preference to all others for ever.
No birthright to rule. Hereditary succession is an insult to posterity because it assumes that one family has a perpetual right to rule over others. No one is born with a right to govern, and the idea that a family should rule forever is unjust.
Nature's disapproval. Nature often produces foolish or wicked rulers, making a mockery of hereditary succession. The idea that a king's descendants are automatically fit to rule is absurd.
- Nature would not so frequently turn it into ridicule by giving mankind an ass for a lion.
Usurped power. Most monarchies began with usurpation, not divine right. The first kings were often nothing more than the principal ruffians of some restless gang. The idea of hereditary succession was a later invention to legitimize their power.
5. America's Connection with Britain is Harmful
I challenge the warmest advocate for reconciliation, to shew, a single advantage that this continent can reap, by being connected with Great Britain.
No benefits, only injuries. America gains no advantages from its connection with Britain. The commerce that enriches America is based on necessities and will always have a market. Britain's protection is self-serving, not altruistic.
European entanglements. America's dependence on Britain involves it in European wars and quarrels, setting it at odds with nations that would otherwise be its friends. It is in America's interest to steer clear of European conflicts.
- The miseries of Hanover last war ought to warn us against connexions.
False parentage. The idea of Britain as the "parent country" is a false and manipulative one. Europe, not England, is the parent country of America. America is an asylum for the persecuted from all parts of Europe.
6. Independence is America's Natural Right
A government of our own is our natural right.
Self-governance is natural. It is natural for a people to govern themselves. The authority of Great Britain over America is a form of government that must eventually end. It is wiser to form a constitution deliberately than to trust to chance.
Avoid future tyranny. If America does not establish its own government, it risks being subjected to the tyranny of a desperate adventurer. The tottering situation of things will be a temptation for some to try their fortune.
- Some Massanello may arise and sweep away the liberties of the continent.
Time to part. The distance between England and America is a natural proof that one should not rule the other. The time of America's discovery and the manner in which it was peopled further support the argument for independence.
7. America is Capable of Self-Governance
The Continent hath, at this time, the largest body of armed and disciplined men of any power under Heaven.
Sufficient strength. America has the resources and manpower to defend itself. It has a large body of armed and disciplined men, and it is capable of building its own navy. The continent is at a point where no single colony can support itself, but the whole, when united, can accomplish the matter.
Abundant resources. America has all the necessary resources for building a fleet, including tar, timber, iron, and cordage. It does not need to rely on other countries for these materials.
- Ship-building is America’s greatest pride.
No debt burden. America has no national debt, unlike Britain. It can create a navy for a fraction of the cost of Britain's debt. A national debt is a national bond, and when it bears no interest, it is not a grievance.
8. A Continental Charter is Essential for Unity
Let a day be solemnly set apart for proclaiming the charter; let it be brought forth placed on the divine law, the word of God; let a crown be placed thereon, by which the world may know, that so far as we approve of monarchy, that in America the law is king.
Foundation for government. A Continental Charter is needed to establish the structure and principles of the new government. It should define the roles of Congress and the assemblies, secure freedom and property, and guarantee religious freedom.
- The charter should be like the Magna Carta of England.
Equal representation. The charter should ensure a large and equal representation in Congress. A small number of electors or representatives is dangerous. The number of representatives should be large and equal to prevent any one part of the country from dominating the others.
Law as king. In free countries, the law should be king, not any individual. The charter should be placed on the divine law, and a crown should be placed on it to symbolize the rule of law.
9. Reconciliation is a Dangerous and Unrealistic Path
Reconciliation and ruin are nearly related.
Temporary fix. Reconciliation with Britain would be a temporary fix that would not address the underlying issues. It would leave America vulnerable to future oppression and conflict. The best terms that can be expected would amount to a kind of government by guardianship.
King's negative power. The king would still have a negative over the whole legislation of the continent. He has shown himself to be an enemy of liberty and would not allow laws to be made that did not suit his purpose.
- The king's negative here is ten times more dangerous and fatal than it can be in England.
Civil war risk. Reconciliation would likely lead to civil war, as those who have suffered under British rule would not accept a return to the status quo. The general temper of the colonies towards a British government will be like that of a youth who is nearly out of his time.
10. The Time for Independence is Now
The time hath found us.
Ripe for independence. The time for independence is now. The continent is united, and it has the resources and manpower to govern itself. The general concurrence and glorious union of all things prove the fact.
Missed opportunity. If America misses this opportunity, it may never have another chance to form a government of its own. Most nations have let slip the opportunity and have been compelled to receive laws from their conquerors.
- The present time is that peculiar time, which never happens to a nation but once.
Delay is dangerous. Delaying independence only prolongs the war and makes it more difficult to achieve. Every day convinces us of its necessity. The longer it is delayed, the harder it will be to accomplish.
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Questions & Answers
What's "Common Sense" by Thomas Paine about?
- Purpose and Context: "Common Sense" is a pamphlet written by Thomas Paine in 1776, advocating for American independence from British rule. It was a pivotal document in rallying public support for the American Revolution.
- Main Arguments: Paine argues against the monarchy and hereditary succession, critiques the English Constitution, and presents the case for American independence as a natural and necessary step.
- Impact: The pamphlet had a profound impact on public opinion in the colonies, influencing many to support the cause of independence.
Why should I read "Common Sense" by Thomas Paine?
- Historical Significance: It is a foundational text in American history, providing insight into the revolutionary mindset and the arguments that fueled the push for independence.
- Persuasive Writing: Paine's writing is a masterclass in persuasive rhetoric, making it a valuable read for understanding effective argumentation.
- Cultural Impact: The pamphlet played a crucial role in shaping the political landscape of the time and continues to be referenced in discussions about democracy and governance.
What are the key takeaways of "Common Sense" by Thomas Paine?
- Critique of Monarchy: Paine argues that monarchy is an illegitimate form of government, inherently corrupt and oppressive.
- Advocacy for Independence: He makes a compelling case for why the American colonies should break away from British rule and form their own government.
- Vision for Government: Paine envisions a government that is simple, representative, and accountable to the people, contrasting sharply with the complex and distant British system.
How does Thomas Paine critique the English Constitution in "Common Sense"?
- Complexity and Confusion: Paine criticizes the English Constitution for being overly complex and difficult for the average person to understand, leading to confusion and mismanagement.
- Inherent Contradictions: He points out contradictions within the system, such as the supposed checks and balances that fail to prevent tyranny.
- Ineffectiveness: Paine argues that the English Constitution is incapable of delivering on its promises of freedom and justice, making it an unsuitable model for the colonies.
What arguments does Thomas Paine make against monarchy in "Common Sense"?
- Natural Equality: Paine asserts that all men are created equal, and the idea of a hereditary monarchy contradicts this fundamental principle.
- Source of Conflict: He argues that monarchies are a source of wars and conflicts, as they are driven by the ambitions and pride of kings.
- Moral and Religious Objections: Paine uses religious arguments to claim that monarchy is against the will of God, citing biblical examples to support his case.
What is Thomas Paine's vision for America's future in "Common Sense"?
- Independence and Self-Governance: Paine envisions an independent America governed by its own laws and free from British interference.
- Continental Unity: He advocates for a united continent, suggesting that the colonies should come together to form a strong, cohesive government.
- Economic Prosperity: Paine believes that independence will lead to economic growth and prosperity, as America would be free to trade with the world.
How did "Common Sense" influence the American Revolution?
- Public Opinion: The pamphlet was widely read and helped shift public opinion towards supporting independence from Britain.
- Political Action: It inspired political leaders and ordinary citizens alike to take action, contributing to the momentum of the revolutionary movement.
- Rhetorical Power: Paine's clear and forceful arguments provided a rallying cry for those advocating for independence, making the case accessible to a broad audience.
What are the best quotes from "Common Sense" and what do they mean?
- "Society in every state is a blessing, but Government, even in its best state, is but a necessary evil." This quote highlights Paine's belief that government is needed to manage society's vices but should be limited in power.
- "The cause of America is in a great measure the cause of all mankind." Paine suggests that the fight for American independence is part of a larger struggle for human rights and freedom.
- "Time makes more converts than reason." This reflects Paine's understanding that change often comes through the passage of time and experience rather than through logical argument alone.
What is Thomas Paine's stance on hereditary succession in "Common Sense"?
- Inequality and Injustice: Paine argues that hereditary succession is unjust, as it places individuals in positions of power based on birth rather than merit.
- Historical Critique: He points out that many hereditary rulers have been incompetent or tyrannical, questioning the wisdom of such a system.
- Moral Argument: Paine contends that hereditary succession is contrary to the principles of natural equality and divine justice.
How does Thomas Paine address the present state of American affairs in "Common Sense"?
- Urgency for Action: Paine emphasizes the urgency of declaring independence, arguing that the current state of affairs is untenable.
- Critique of Reconciliation: He dismisses the idea of reconciliation with Britain as impractical and dangerous, advocating instead for a clean break.
- Vision for the Future: Paine outlines a vision for a prosperous and independent America, free from the constraints of British rule.
What does Thomas Paine propose for the future government of America in "Common Sense"?
- Simple and Representative: Paine advocates for a government that is simple in structure and representative of the people's will.
- Frequent Elections: He suggests frequent elections to ensure that representatives remain accountable to the electorate.
- Checks and Balances: While critical of the British system, Paine acknowledges the need for checks and balances to prevent the abuse of power.
How does Thomas Paine address the Quakers in the appendix of "Common Sense"?
- Critique of Neutrality: Paine criticizes the Quakers for their stance of neutrality, arguing that their refusal to take sides is a form of complicity.
- Call for Action: He urges them to reconsider their position and support the cause of independence, framing it as a moral imperative.
- Religious Argument: Paine challenges the Quakers' religious justification for their stance, suggesting that true Christian principles support the fight for freedom.
Review Summary
Common Sense is widely praised as a pivotal text in American history, inspiring the revolution with its clear, accessible arguments against monarchy and British rule. Readers appreciate Paine's logical reasoning, biblical references, and passionate rhetoric aimed at the common man. Many find it still relevant today, noting its influence on the Founding Fathers and subsequent political thought. Some criticize its oversimplification and omission of potential negatives of independence. Overall, it's considered an essential read for understanding American political philosophy, though opinions on its continued applicability vary.
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