Rights of Man, Common Sense, and Other Political Writings (Oxford World's Classics)

1. The Rights of Man are Universal and Inalienable

"The rights of man in society are neither devisable, nor transferable, nor annihilable, but are descendable only; and it is not in the power of any generation to intercept finally and cut off the descent."

Natural rights. All individuals are born with certain unalienable rights, including life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. These rights are not granted by governments but are inherent to human nature. They apply equally to all people, regardless of their social status, nationality, or any other factor.

Generational responsibility. Each generation has a duty to preserve and protect these rights for future generations. No government or authority has the legitimate power to take away or limit these fundamental human rights. The struggle for rights and liberty is an ongoing process that requires vigilance and active participation from citizens.

Key natural rights:

• Life
• Liberty
• Property
• Security
• Resistance to oppression

2. Government Should Serve the People, Not Rule Over Them

"Government, even in its best state, is but a necessary evil; in its worst state, an intolerable one."

Social contract. Government should be based on a social contract between the people and their representatives. Its primary purpose is to protect the rights and promote the welfare of its citizens, not to exert power over them. When a government fails to fulfill this duty, the people have the right and responsibility to alter or abolish it.

Limited government. The power of government should be strictly limited to prevent tyranny and abuse. Paine argues for a system of checks and balances, separation of powers, and regular elections to ensure that government remains accountable to the people. He criticizes the excessive power and privilege of monarchies and aristocracies, advocating instead for democratic republics that truly represent the will of the people.

Principles of good government:

• Representation of the people
• Protection of individual rights
• Transparency and accountability
• Limited and defined powers

3. Hereditary Monarchy is Unjust and Irrational

"One of the strongest natural proofs of the folly of hereditary right in kings, is, that nature disapproves it, otherwise, she would not so frequently turn it into ridicule by giving mankind an ass for a lion."

Arbitrary power. Hereditary monarchy is based on the flawed premise that leadership qualities and wisdom are inherited. This system often results in incompetent or tyrannical rulers who have no regard for the welfare of their subjects. Paine argues that it is absurd to entrust the governance of a nation to someone based solely on their birth.

Meritocracy. Instead of hereditary succession, Paine advocates for a system where leaders are chosen based on their abilities, character, and commitment to serving the public good. He believes that a republic, where power is derived from the consent of the governed and leaders are elected, is far superior to a monarchy in protecting the rights and interests of the people.

Problems with hereditary monarchy:

• Lack of accountability
• Potential for incompetent leadership
• Concentration of power in a single family
• Disregard for the will of the people

4. Constitutions Must Protect Individual Rights

"A constitution is not the act of a government, but of a people constituting a government; and government without a constitution is power without a right."

Written guarantees. A constitution serves as a fundamental law that defines and limits the powers of government while protecting the rights of individuals. It should be crafted by the people, not imposed by rulers, and should clearly articulate the principles upon which the government is founded.

Flexibility and stability. While providing a stable framework for governance, constitutions should also include mechanisms for amendment and revision to adapt to changing circumstances and the evolving needs of society. Paine argues that each generation has the right to establish its own form of government, but that certain fundamental principles of liberty and justice should be preserved.

Key elements of a good constitution:

• Bill of Rights
• Separation of powers
• Checks and balances
• Process for amendment
• Regular review and renewal

5. Progressive Taxation Can Reduce Inequality

"The rich have no more right to exclude the poor from the right of voting, or of electing and being elected, than the poor have to exclude the rich."

Economic justice. Paine proposes a system of progressive taxation to address the extreme inequality of his time. He argues that those who have benefited most from society have a greater obligation to contribute to its maintenance and improvement. This includes taxing large inherited estates to prevent the concentration of wealth and power in the hands of a few.

Social investment. The revenue generated from progressive taxation should be used to fund public services and social programs that benefit all members of society, particularly the most vulnerable. Paine suggests using tax revenue to provide education, support for the elderly and disabled, and assistance to families with children.

Proposed tax reforms:

• Progressive income tax rates
• Estate tax on large inheritances
• Land value tax
• Reduction of regressive taxes on necessities

6. Social Welfare Programs Benefit Society as a Whole

"It is not charity, but a right, not bounty but justice, that I am pleading for."

Universal benefits. Paine proposes a system of universal social welfare programs to alleviate poverty and provide basic security for all citizens. He argues that these programs are not charity, but a right that stems from the social contract between citizens and their government. By ensuring that all members of society have access to basic necessities and opportunities, the overall well-being and stability of the nation are improved.

Economic stimulus. Social welfare programs not only help individuals in need but also contribute to economic growth by increasing consumer spending and reducing the negative effects of poverty on society. Paine suggests that by investing in the well-being of all citizens, a nation can create a more prosperous and harmonious society.

Proposed social welfare programs:

• Universal basic income for the elderly
• Child allowances for families
• Free public education
• Healthcare assistance
• Support for the unemployed and disabled

7. International Cooperation Can Promote Peace and Progress

"The world is my country, all mankind are my brethren, and to do good is my religion."

Global citizenship. Paine envisions a world where nations cooperate for mutual benefit rather than engage in destructive competition and war. He argues that the principles of liberty and human rights should be universal, transcending national boundaries. By fostering understanding and cooperation between nations, the likelihood of conflict can be reduced.

Economic integration. International trade and economic cooperation can create mutual dependencies that discourage war and promote shared prosperity. Paine suggests that nations should work together to reduce trade barriers, share knowledge and technology, and collaborate on solving global challenges such as poverty and environmental degradation.

Benefits of international cooperation:

• Reduced likelihood of war
• Economic growth through trade
• Shared scientific and technological progress
• Collective action on global issues
• Cultural exchange and understanding

8. Revolution Through Reason is Preferable to Violence

"Reason and Ignorance, the opposites of each other, influence the great bulk of mankind. If either of these can be rendered sufficiently extensive in a country, the machinery of Government goes easily on."

Enlightenment. Paine believes that education and the spread of knowledge are the most effective means of achieving social and political change. By appealing to reason and promoting public discourse, it is possible to peacefully transform society and government without resorting to violence.

Gradual reform. While recognizing the right of people to revolt against tyranny, Paine advocates for peaceful, gradual reform whenever possible. He argues that by educating the public about their rights and the principles of good government, lasting change can be achieved through democratic processes and the power of public opinion.

Strategies for peaceful revolution:

• Public education and literacy campaigns
• Free press and open debate
• Peaceful protests and civil disobedience
• Participation in elections and civic institutions
• Formation of civil society organizations

Last updated: August 10, 2024