This week, just write quotes that you find in "Common Sense" and explain why they seem either interesting or confusing. You do not have to write the normal amount here this week. Just write a couple of quotes and respond to them.
And as always, respond to your brilliant classmates!
"I know it is difficult to get over local or long standing prejudices, yet if we will suffer ourselves to examine the component parts of the English Constitution, we shall find them to be the base remains of two ancient tyrannies, compounded with some new Republican materials"
ReplyDeleteI like this quote because Paine explains how he knows its going to be hard to get the British to treat the American colonies equal or better, but if the two can follow some rules then they can become a government that used to have oppressed and unfair laws.
"a long habit of not thinking a thing WRONG, gives it a superficial appearance of being RIGHT,"
I really liked this quote and found it interesting. I found it interesting because it is just saying a long time of thinking that what you are doing is not wrong even if it really is, may start to make you really think mentally that nothing really is wrong and that you are doing the right thing. It's true in many other cases as well. My mom used to tell me "two wrongs don't make a right" almost saying the same thing. Just cause you may have done something wrong the first time and got away with it doesn't mean you can do it again and think it is okay.
"Society is produced by our wants, and governments by our wickedness;"
I found this one interesting and a little bit confusing. I think it means that society if fine without a government. Thomas Paine believes that government is just another set of rules that does not need to be there. Like the government and laws made by the government are just power. On societies own, the citizens can come together and make common rules for themselves.
Hello Melissa, when you typed about how Paine explains how the British were treated at that time and how the American Colonies were no better than anyone else. Also, you did a great job explaining the quotes you chose, your explanation helped myself learn and see another opinion and or view of every quote.
DeleteI liked the second quote you posted, it relates to when someone does something bad and doesn't correct it and then they keep doing the same error or bad thing again.
DeleteMelissa, your response was very insightful. I liked how you included your mom into the response. Connecting on a deeper note is well appreciated and I acknowledge it. I agree with you that the last quote is a bit confusing and honestly I liked how you explained it.
DeleteHi Melissa,
DeleteI liked the third quote you mentioned, but i think that having a government is important because government allows us to maintain order and feel protected from other people. i personally think that if government is produced by our wickedness, it's because we allow it that way. Mainly because we have our eyes closed to not see the danger that surrounds us. And it's our own people that harm the government by not being organized.Either way, government has to exist, and although like Paine said they are just a set if rules, think what the world would be like if government did not exist.
Melissa, I don't believe that in this statement that Thomas Paine thinks a government is unnecessary. I feel what he means is that it is a necessary evil to keep the peace. If it weren't for some order there would be chaos and people would only do fancies them.
DeleteMelissa, I also have to disagree with you in the last quote because I don’t think Paine thought that the government was unnecessary. I think he was trying to said that the government is a method to help us to overcome our wickedness. Also, that the government is “a necessary evil” because whether we like it or not every society needs a type of government in order to function correctly.
DeleteMelissa I really like how you explained your quotes and used quotes to prove your point this week. I really understood and the evidence only proved your knowledge about this weeks topic Good Job.
DeleteI enjoyed your quotes Melissa. Really good explanations and really good choice of quotes.
DeleteMelissa, I really liked your quote of "Society is produced by our wants, and governments by our wickedness;" I think it has a different meaning like the things that we want in government is being brought to our attention by the society. Then it seems like government is the one who wants to gain like profits, like if the government is just trying to find ways to see where they can gain more power.
Delete“Society is produced by our wants, and government by wickedness; the former promotes our happiness positively by uniting our affections, the latter negatively by restraining our vices. The one encourages intercourse, the other creates distinctions. The first is a patron, the last a punisher.”
ReplyDeletePaine is saying that society is good because it's a united force among people. the government is bad because it curbs our moral behaviors. so one helps unite people and one encourages conflict between people as in the government.
“For all men being originally equals, no one by birth could have the right to set up his own family in perpetual preference to all others forever, and tho' himself might deserve some decent degree of honors of his contemporaries, yet his descendants might be far too unworthy to inherit them.”
I think this is a reference to having a monarch.I believe he is saying you can't have people rule for long periods of time because it is unequal. you can't let other people rule because of your relations to them because you might not be a good leader like the people before you were. so having a royal monarchs back in those days speaks about how the foundations of country came about.
“And as a man, who is attached to a prostitute, is unfitted to choose or judge of a wife, so any prepossession in favor of a rotten constitution of government will disable us from discerning a good one.”
For Paine choosing a prostitute is bad a man choosing a prostitute he is not fitted to choosing a good wife. In the same sense people who support bad government can't choose a good government.
“Suspicion is the companion of mean souls, and the bane of all good society.”
This one is interesting because he is saying that is your suspicious then that is your motivation for being a mean person. suspicion can lead to the decay of a good society because it cause people to distrust one another without having evidence.
“Common sense will tell us, that
the power which hath endeavored to subdue us, is of all others, the
most improper to defend us.”
I also liked this one because he is saying if we have a structure in power that abuses us then it can't protects us.
Hi Tyler! As I read your responses I was amazed by such great detailed quotes you found. I like the fact that you explained what you felt Paine was trying to state as well as your own personal response. Keep up the good work!
DeleteHi Tyler,
DeleteI liked your third quote and i could see how Paine connects a prostitute to choosing a good government. Because if a man is stubborn to choosing a prostitute rather than a wife, then he doesn't qualify to notice the difference between a good government and a bad one and the benefit of knowing which one is the best. Overall your explanation sounds less complicated than mine, very good indeed.
Tyler, I agree with your explanation of your second quote. How are we able to know that an entire family will be capable of taking the responsibilities of a country? Children aren't always as capable as their parents and vice versa.
DeleteI really like how he says the association of the colonies with the Royal Brute who is the king holds us back from accomplishing a good government. Paine believes the that British have failing government and that our association with them will in turn gives a falling government also.
DeleteTyler, I really what you said about the first quote that you posted, I had the same quote and I really did enjoy it because it is true society is composed of all types of people, with different things like morals but we are all the same like society is composed of people that believe in causes, but sometimes when the government comes in they don't really sometimes do things for the good of the people rather than have personal benefit.
Delete“The wise, and the worthy, need not the triumph of a pamphlet; and those whose sentiments are injudicious, or unfriendly, will cease of themselves unless too much pains are bestowed upon their conversion.”
ReplyDeleteI honestly have no idea what this means, but I’m guessing it is stating the wise and the worthy should not be forced to follow the restrictions given to man. They should be given the ability to choose for themselves and not allow the monarchy to direct their lives.
“First, they had a king, and then a form of government; whereas the articles or charter of government should be formed first, and men delegated to execute them afterwards; but from the errors of other nations let us learn wisdom, and lay hold of the present opportunity”
I really liked this quote because of the way Thomas Paine made it so straight forward and stated that from other nation’s errors we should learn to better ourselves. His statement resembles the universal quote to learn from others mistakes and take advantage of the opportunities that are given.
“Society is produced by our wants, and government by our wickedness; the former promotes our happiness POSITIVELY by uniting our affections, the latter NEGATIVELY by restraining our vices.”
I found this quote interesting and somewhat confusing. I think this quote is stating that the government was suppressing the colonists’ views. Society was doing what the people wanted and government is just plain evil in Paine’s eyes.
“Those who expect to reap the blessings of freedom, must, like men, undergo the fatigues of supporting it.”
Colonists have who fight for their freedom must also realizes the consequences it comes with, whether it is war any other dramatic change. To have freedom one must support the cause one hundred percent regardless of any circumstances.
Hello Anna, I really liked what said in your quotes. You gave great explanations to your quotes, which made me understanding what you were talking about. Great job!
DeleteAnna I was fascinated by the choice of your quotes. You gave great explanations which helped me understand them even more. Some of Paine's writing can be confusing, but your explanations to some of these quotes were a great help! You did great!
DeleteLast quote is the best quote that really stokes the fire for revolution. It states than Men can no longer wait and just expect to get their freedom, and that they must fight to retrieve it. Great choice quotes Anna.
DeleteI love your logic on things. You too are a person of common sense. I agree with your response to the freedom quote. Freedom is worth fighting for and everyone should support the beliefs that they are passionate about. Although you chose some difficult quotes you managed to give your honest opinion.
DeleteAnna, I really enjoyed reading your first quote. I felt like it had strong meaning behind it. “The wise, and the worthy, need not the triumph of a pamphlet; and those whose sentiments are injudicious, or unfriendly, will cease of themselves unless too much pains are bestowed upon their conversion.” I think that it is trying to say that people who are wise are meant to triumph because of their personal will. verses those people who just live off greed and it just causes them problems. I like your reasons behind your choice of quotes!
Delete“And as a man, who is attached to a prostitute, is unfitted to choose or judge of a wife, so any prepossession in favour of a rotten constitution of a government will disable us from discerning a good one.”
ReplyDeleteI find this quote interesting because I’m not completely sure what it is supposed to mean. Is it comparing a poor choice in wife to the rotten constitution? Is it saying that since a man chose an unfitted wife, we can only expect him to be in favour of a bad constitution? I may not be reading or interpreting this quote correctly, but regardless I still thought it was pretty interesting.
“Mankind being originally equals in the order of creation, the equality could only be destroyed by some subsequent circumstance; the distinctions of rich, and poor, may in great measure be accounted for…”
This quote has a lot of truth to it. We, in the sense of creation, were all created equally. No one is better or less than someone else because of the class they were born into. The division between the rich and poor has caused a gap between people in all aspects. In terms of working together to better the country, they feel a sort of resentment to one another due to their difference in class. It has led to the destruction of equality, even in today’s society to a certain extent.
“Even brutes do not devour their young, nor savages make war upon their families; wherefore the assertion, if true, turns to her reproach; but it happens not to be true, or only partly so, and the phrase parent or mother country hath been jesuitically adopted by the king and his parasites..”
As Thomas Paine continues to talk about Great Britain, he brings up the idea of it being called the mother country. It could be considered a ROYAL BRUTE due to the way it treats and cares for the people there. It should not be declaring war against its people, but rather provided a haven and reassurance that they will be alright in this place. I found this quote interesting because of the way Paine describes the “mother country” and how he compares the king‘s court to parasites.
Lisa I really enjoyed the first quote, it did catch my attention and I actually think it makes pretty good sense. I feel that I'm on the same page with you towards this quote and its comparisons towards the man choosing a prostitute and choosing a bad constitution.
DeleteYou chose really good quotes in general, and I very much agree with the second one as well.
Lisandra, I believe only a ROYAL BRUTE can think themselves above all others even though mankind was created equal.
DeleteAre you saying i'm a ROYAL BRUTE Talia? I'm just kidding. I agree with you that mankind was created equal.
DeleteI feel like the first quote is saying that if we have any chance of creating a new constitution that will work and be oh so fantastic, we must drop all practices and beliefs of the old one because obviously it isn't working for a reason.
Delete"Even brutes do not devour their young, nor savages make war upon their families"
ReplyDeleteThis quote is rather confusing to me because the first half I interpreted that ROYAL BRUTES are kind to their children but yet wouldn't they judge them more closely because they have a closer connection? The second half I understood that savages do not fight amongst one another because there isn't anything to fight for since their reputation has been deemed to so little. Overall, I think this quote in a way is stating that each class rank defends its own in order to prosper and achieve their own 'freedom'.
"Any submission to, or dependence on Great Britain, tends directly to involve this continent in European wars and quarrels; and sets us at variance with nations, who would otherwise seek our friendship"
I find this quote interesting because if the American people depended on Great Britain more wars would have commenced in order to gain more land. In doing so, enemies would have been built and American colonies would not have prospered as it has now in modern day. It was beneficial for those in the American colonies to separate from British rule.
"Emigrants of property will not choose to come to a country whose form of government hangs but a thread"
This quote is amusing and interesting because it is stating that emigrants that have money will not invest their time and money in a government or land who will not succeed later in life. I'm sure many individuals had doubts about investing their lives for hope in achieving freedom.
"A government which cannot preserve the peace, is no government at all"
This quote is motivating for the fact that it states that a government cannot preserve peace if there is no government. The people of the American colonies need to have someone taking charge and taking the best interest of all colonies in order to help grow the country as a whole. The government needs to be able to keep peace between the colonies so if a dispute does arise then the issue can be addressed and reach a mutual compromise.
All your quotes are good ones, but I especially like the last one. I agree with it and with what you had to say about it. The government should always look out for the people rather than acting upon self-interest.
DeleteI like that he uses the actions of brutes and savages as parallels to the way England and the crown has treated the colonies. It is a very powerful technique, who could argue with that. If not even the most primordial figures behave in such a manner, why should the colonies put up with such treatment from a power who is said to have their best interest at heart.
DeleteHey Janai,
DeleteI really liked your choice of quotes, it made me understand a lot more of what Paine intended.Your last quote really made sense to me and it's interpretation made me understand it a lot more.
Janai, I really liked all your quotes but the one that stood out the most to me was your last one "A government which cannot preserve the peace, is no government at all" I think that this can relate to this time of day, like how right now the government does not seem to decide on what should be passed so the government is in shut down and since there is no peace there then there really is not much. Loved your response!! They were very insightful.
Delete"Tyranny, like hell, is not easily conquered;yet we have this consolation with us, that the harder the conflict,the more glorious the triumph".
ReplyDeleteI liked this quote because I believe that the more effort you put into something you want the more the reward will be, like when you study more for a test the better grade you will get.
"The lives of hundreds of both countries had been preserved had America been in arms years ago".
This quotes is interesting because it talks about how the Americans had a solution in their hands and they took time to defend their liberties from the British.
"Then, after the wedding, when their eyes have feasted to boredom and their lusts are quenched, the couple realizes the mistake".
This quote is so true because beauty will go away and couples become so bored or disappointed of each other that it is after they marry they discover what each one is really like. I thought the sketch of Henry Sheffer and His Wife on page 24 was a bit funny but cruel at the same time because the wife was sketched with a face similar to the one a witch would have and this might not have been the beautiful face she had when they got married. It depicts what the quote says really well.
Hey Maricela I thought you chose really great quotes, the last one especially caught my attention and it really just speaks the truth.
DeleteYes Maria it sure does.
DeleteI like your second quote because they could have ended with a solution earlier and saved many. it is a shame that it took America so long to find a solution but they did find the right solution and they may have not been achieved if they rushed their freedom.
DeleteGood choice in quotes! I like the first one and disagree with the third one you chose. I agree that for a glorious ending you have to first go through the challenges thrown at you. The third quote, is very true in SOME relationship. Not all couples get bored of eachother though, many fall much deeper in love with one another as time goes by, so I'd have to disagree
Delete“The power of governing still remaining in the hands of the king, he will have a negative over the whole legislation of this continent.”
ReplyDelete-I like this quote because of the fact that it mentions how the king is being a ROYAL BRUTES about the legislation as a whole and how he is treating the situation. The king obviously does not like what is going on with the new legislation and he wants to put a stop to it.
“Securing freedom and property to all men, and above all things, the free exercise of religion.”
-I was confused on this quote because what I think it is trying to say is that if you secure your money and your property then you have a higher chance that you will be higher class. Also then it was talking about if one has this certain freedom that you can freedom to believe in whatever he or she believes. Overall, men having riches to pay for property, they have freedom and the right to believe in whatever religion.
“We may be as effectually enslaved by the want of laws in America.”
-I really was empowered by this quote because, peasants really tried to get laws established for themselves and the king was being a brute and denied it all from happening. Also, I really liked how the quote mentions that they are “enslaved” in any want that the peasants wanted. Peasants just wanted to be free from the king, and have a right to have a say in anything other than what the king enforced.
“Monarchy is ranked in scripture as one of the sins of the Jews, for which a curse in reserve is denounced against them.”
-I really liked what this quote stated because, monarchy have the only say in anything and anyone lower than the king and his followers. Also I loved how it states how anything that the king has to say and what was written in a book and a sin. Also, this quote means to me that whatever goes around comes back around. Another meaning would be, like simply saying karma will get you back at what you did to anyone. Using the words like “cruse” and “denounced against” made this quote very powerful in the sense that anyone that wasn’t the king followers were saying that whatever he said will come back and bite him in the butt.
“A government of our own is our natural right”
-This empowered me the most because I just love how this states that whatever the government says, anyone following it has a say in what should be said. I liked this because this is the time when anyone that wasn't following the king has a say what should be changing and create a government. With having government, anyone had a right what to say, other than following the king, when he was the only person to have a say in anything.
Jisel, I really like your quotes, especially the last one because in a government, like a democracy, we have rights and a voice. Also, we don’t have to be manipulated by a king, that has to tell us whether we can or can’t talk.
Delete"A long habit of not thinking a thing WRONG, gives it a superficial appearance of being RIGHT."
ReplyDeleteI find this statement funny because it just points out that the many are ignorant because they don't question why things shouldn't be the way they are.
"For all men being originally equals, no one by birth could have the right to set up his own family in perpetual preference to all others forever, and though himself might deserve some decent degree of honours of his contemporaries, yet his descendants might be far too unworthy to inherit them."
This argument I found a fantastic argument because what makes this family above all others. And why should they have control over everybody else?
"Small islands, not capable of protecting themselves, are the proper objects for kingdoms to take under their care; but there is something very absurd, in supposing a continent to be perpetually governed by an island."
America does not need the protection of the British monarchy because of its size, nor will it be of much use considering the distance between them both.
"The state of a king shuts him from the world, yet the business of a king requires him to know it thoroughly; wherefore the different parts, by unnaturally opposing and destroying each other , prove the whole character to be absurd and useless."
If a king does not see how his subjects are fairing then how will he know how to help them. And wouldn't that make it harder for the king to empathize with them if he does not life like them?
"We are already greater than the king wishes us to be, and will he not hereafter endeavor to make us less?"
I feel that when a king finds that the land and people is becoming more than what he wants he will try to suppress them in order to continue to rule over them.
"Common sense will tell us, that the power which hath endeavoured to subdue us, is of all others the most improper to defend us."
The Monarchy just wishes to continue its rule so if it can't keep that position it wouldn't continue to defend the ones who are trying to end its rule.
I really like this quote it just tells the truth. I like how it just reminds me that only because I have long time thinking that something is right not necessary means I am right for thinking something is correct just the way it is and just makes me question my way of thinking.
DeleteI like your last quote, if being attacked by a country they more than likely would not want to defend you. There would always be negativity from the soldiers against the people.
Delete“Society in every state is a blessing, but government even in its best state is but a necessary evil”
ReplyDeleteI like this quote because I think I understand what Paine was trying to say about society and government. For example, society is a blessing because it helps us to be connected to each other and thus provided us with different resource, such as, friends, communications, resources, and common goals. In the other hand, Paine state that government is “a necessary evil”, I think he means that a government is necessary for a society to work. However, if the government were to be in the wrong hands it could cause great harm to their people. Government means power and that power is evil because it gives control over its people and thus making it a necessary evil.
“There were no kings; the consequence of which was there were no wars; it is the pride of kings which throw mankind into confusion”
I like this quote because Paine gives a reason why at that point in time people were confused and with the probability of a war between the British and the Colonies. As he states the pride and vanity of the king were confusing the people of the Colonies because of all the taxes and laws that were passed to obtained revenues from the colonies. I think this quote is very accurate because it provides a very logical reason why so many wars have been fought throw out history.
“From the errors of other nations, let us learn wisdom”
I like this quote because Paine understands that in order for the colonies to succeed they have to learn from the errors and mistakes from other nations. Also, I think he mean that colonies have looked at countries and try to figured out which type of government they were going to establish in the colonies.
I find the last quote to be the best, only because it makes sense the first time you read it. There is no need to attempt to interpret it because it is pretty straight-forward. Learning from others' mistakes will always better benefit nations/individuals.
DeleteI think you did a great job with understanding and explaining this quote because at first when I read it I did not understood by what it was trying to say. But now that you have broken down the quote you helped me understand it .
DeleteI really like the first quote. I feel like he is saying the concept of society is a wonderful thing but it can't exist without government and he seems to believe that government tends to cloud the beauty of society.
DeleteI agree that a government is a necessary evil like Paine does. the government, state or federal, controls many aspects of our life. they are in the economy and our defense. But they do cause many problems like the deficit and taxes. but it is needed for a society to survive.
DeleteAntonio, I really liked your first quote “Society in every state is a blessing, but government even in its best state is but a necessary evil” I think it is interesting. Like its kind of a paradox like society/government is great when its in it best, its an blessing but at the same time when it is at its all time best it can be a dangerous thing.
Delete“Here Lies the body of John Crow, Who once was high but now is low Ye brother Crows take warning all, For as you rise, so must you fall” this quote I found on page 5. To better explain this quote it was written by Thomas Pains to a pet crow when Thomas Pain was eight years old. The reason I found this interesting was that at a very young age Thomas Pain learned a very important thing or lesson. Thomas Pain had to understand that as things go up they must come down and this is very basic common sense but in this quote it is relating to death of his pet crow and learning that all things die at one day. It just amazes me to think about that at the time of the ROYAL BRUTES little kids had to grow up fast and start understanding how the world really works. Now a days many eight year olds common sense do not work as much as it did for the eight year olds of the time when Thomas Pains was a kid. I understand that the time periods are different and there are two very distinct situations but this quote coming from Thomas Pain when he was eight years old which at the time many children did not get much of education as kids now but yet have high level of common sense. I just think this quote was really down to earth and really interesting how Thomas Pain mind started to expand with great knowledge and common sense at a really young age.
ReplyDeleteHi Martin, I also thought this quote was interesting but I did not understand it much. Know I know what Thomas meant when he said that by reading your description of it. I believe there are a few of those children now, just as there was at that time but only they will decide if the want to become the next Thomas Paine by getting more education.
Delete"Society in every state is a blessing, but government even in it's best state is but necessary evil; in its worst state an intolerable one; for when we suffer, or are exposed to the same miseries by a government, which we might expect in a country without government, our calamities is heightened by reflecting that we furnish that means by which we suffer."
ReplyDeletePaine is saying that we can expect to suffer and misery in a country with no government, which can cause a tragedy .
"There is something exceedingly ridiculous in the composition of monarchy; it first excludes a man from the means of information, yet empowers him to act in cases where the highest judgement is required."
A man who gets hold of being a monarch has the power to take important decisions, but is denied access to information. Pain thinks that the way monarchy is assembled is really ridiculous.
"For monarchy in every instance is the Popery of government."
I think Paine is saying that through government, is the practice of monarchy.
"And as a man, who is attached to a prostitute is unfitted to choose or judge of a wife, so any prepossession in favour of a rotten constitution of government will disable us from discerning a good one."
Through this quote i think Paine means that if a man chooses a prostitute over a wife, then he is in no position to know the difference and chose between a good and bad government because he will most likely pick a bad government.
A lot of Paine's quotes or excerpts talk a lot about how the government is run and how it should be and it's good that your quotes all have to do with how government is not really properly run.
Delete"Society is produced by our wants, and governments by our wickedness;"
ReplyDeleteTo be honest this quote surprised me in many ways. One, because it gives off this sort of "selfishness" that we the people are as individuals within the nation. and second because our nation's laws is constructed by us (the people) and how we strive to make things into our own beneficial way.
"The lives of hundreds of both countries had been preserved had America been in arms years ago".
This quote saddens me because I can feel the sad and troubled spirit within this text because here they speak of the rule of the British, thus blaming them for the unfortunate events that have occurred during the rough times of our nation.
"We are already greater than the king wishes us to be, and will he not hereafter endeavor to make us less?"
This quote gives off the confidence that the Americans had. This is evidence that the individuals that were against the British were ready to stand their guard and fight for their freedom in becoming a one whole united nation.
I like your last quote Virginia, it shows the confidence patriots had in America. That confidence is what drove them to perceive their true strength later on. It also marked the beginning of a new identity, an identity worth going to war with your "mother land".
DeleteI like all your quotes Virginia, especially the first one. As you mention is a very surprising quote because of the way it is written. Also, you explained the meaning of the quote very good.
DeleteI also was moved by the third quote, it defines the treatment of mother England as preventitive and unjust. Actions leading up to this period have only prohibited the colonies from thriving and I believe Thomas Paine is saying that if the ROYAL BRUTE has done all he can to stop America from being as good as it can be, than why would he stop once it has succeeded and attempt to cut it down.
DeleteHey Virginia! I loved your interpretations! I also did the first quote and I could not figure out the "our wickedness" part. There was so much interpretations I could think off but that got me confused. When you said the selfishness that we individuals within the nation, it clicked inside! Thanks! Anyways, I also liked your interpretations of the third quote. Fighting for freedom that we deserve gives confidence and strength is how I saw it instantly when I read it. Nice!
DeleteVirginia, I really liked your quote "We are already greater than the king wishes us to be, and will he not hereafter endeavor to make us less?"
DeleteIt is true. During that time period the King did not expect them to be any way or to gain power, the king just wanted to have them to be less than him, but in reality they were starting to gain more power, little by little.
"Monarchy is ranked as one of the sins of the Jews, for which a curse in reverse is denounced against them. The history of that transaction is worth attending to."
ReplyDeleteIn this quote Paine is trying to present an argument by using an example from the Bible.In this specific part of the reading the Jews wanted a King like all the other nations, but God disproves the idea of a king. He is basically trying to conclude that even the Bible and God condemn the idea of a king, and trying to be like other nations does not mean one has to follow those principles as well.
"To the evil of monarchy we have added that of hereditary succession;..."
Paine likes to use the word "evil" a lot. Did anyone else notice? So what i interpreted from this quote is that he is not only against monarchy but also the fact that a king is crowned by birth right. His argument is that hereditary succession is basically ridiculous and evil, and therefore the kings are ROYAL BRUTES.
"No country on the globe is so happily situated, or so internally capable of raising a fleet as America. Tar, timber, iron, and cordage are her natural produce"
From this quote Paine is giving his argument that America does not need Britain to flourish. Britain only uses America and it is clear that if they were to gain independence they would be able to protect and produce on their own. This is the message I got from this quote.
I love your last quote Anna, it opens eyes of the colonists and shows them the true power of America. In turn it gives "Americans"pride in America and gives them an identity better Britain. This notion of united might, is the glue that led to the unity of the colonies in my opinion.
DeleteI agree that your last quote because it gave the Americans the courage to know that they will flourish even without Britain as their main supplier. Raul is right, Americans finally became united for this cause.
DeleteI really love your interpretation to the quotes you've chose, especially the last one. Britain only prevented the Americans to flourish, and this quote, as Heather and Raul points out, lead to the , as Raul stated, "unity of the colonies."
DeleteYes, I noticed that Paine enjoys the word "evil" as well. I think he enjoys the dramatic effect it produces, since this entire work seems quite intense and dramatic. I enjoyed that this quote was brought up because I have always thought that it was ridiculous that kings should be decided on by hereditary succession. First of all, just because a person is the son of the previous king does not mean that he will be a well-suited king too. Also, this caused there to be very young kings who were not prepared in the slightest to take on the responsibility of ruling. Overall, I believe the whole thing was ridiculous and I am glad that we do not live in a country where that is necessary.
DeleteRaul, Heather, and Mary Joy, I'm glad you all found the last quote interesting as i did. I do view it as you all have summed up that it helped unit the colonies.
DeleteIrene, yeah i agree with you. He uses the word to really dramatize and emphasize his arguments.
“Society in every state is a blessing, but government even in its best state is but a necessary evil; in its worst state an intolerable one…”
ReplyDelete- This quote makes us understand Thomas Paine’s view on government. He states that government is “…but necessary evil” in which causes a riot against the British government. Government is nothing but a ROYAL BRUTE, as expressed by the word evil. We can never trust the government because we do not know what to expect from a government that is evil during its best state and an intolerable one during its worst state. We the people follow the government and government needs society in order to survive. People are a blessing because we never change to good and bad or from bad to good.
“Mankind being originally equals in the order of creation, the equality could only be destroyed by some subsequent circumstance; the distinctions of rich, and poor, may in great measure be accounted for…”
- This quotes says it all and is extremely important. Everyone was created equally and the distinctions between richness and poverty should not matter. The truth is, as Paine shows, that we are not all seen equally. Our level in society plays a big role in defining how a person is going to be treated. For example, back in week 1 when we were learning about the colonies we saw how the poor were treated as slaves and were ordered to work like animals, as for the rich they were the ones treating the poor as animals. The constant discrimination between classes does not let the people unite and with that we will never be able to amount to anything.
“Small islands not capable of protecting themselves are the proper objects for kingdoms to take under their care; but there is something very absurd in supposing a continent to be perpetually governed by an island”
- This quote to my understanding states that small cities are not capable of taking care of themselves and this is why the king governs them. Kings use these little islands to define a monarchy because the king takes total control over these little islands.
I really like all your quotes, especially the first one. I also agree that the colonials at that point in time couldn’t and shouldn’t trust a government that was evil. However, now days we need a government that can keep our society and nation in balance and order.
DeleteI really like your interpretation to your second quote. And I agree, we all are equal, but not seen and treated equal because we are or we are not birthed to certain social class. It's still like that to this day, power and wealth defines how we are treated and how we are seen.
Delete"The Sun never shined on a cause of greater worth. 'Tis not the affair of a City, a County, a Province, or a Kingdom; but of a Continent — of at least one-eighth part of the habitable Globe. 'Tis not the concern of a day, a year, or an age; posterity are virtually involved in the contest, and will be more or less affected even to the end of time, by the proceedings now. Now is the seed-time of Continental union, faith and honour. The least fracture now will be like a name engraved with the point of a pin on the tender rind of a young oak; the wound would enlarge with the tree, and posterity read in it full grown characters."
ReplyDelete-- I love this quote because it represents a call for unity, not only that but, Paine describes the true size and strength of the colonies. Here Paine introduces a new sense of identity not as colonists but as Americans. He introduces patriot movements as a united cause and puts the idea of "British tyranny" as the enemy and glorifies patriot progression. It calls for everyone to engrave their name in the foundation of a new future and identifies present action an important aspect of future freedom.
"But, admitting that we were all of English descent, what does it amount to? Nothing. Britain, being now an open enemy, extinguishes every other name and title: and to say that reconciliation is our duty, is truly farcical. The first king of England, of the present line (William the Conqueror) was a Frenchman, and half the peers of England are descendants from the same country; wherefore, by the same method of reasoning, England ought to be governed by France."
-- Paine is a remarkable writer here he questions British loyalism by giving historical references. He states that Britain began with William the Conqueror a ROYAL BRUTE of French descent. As time progressed it eventually became Britain not remained French. The most difficult aspect for supporting the cause is that the colonists considered themselves British. Here Paine shatters British loyalty in using historical references to truly show how dumb that Idea is. He states that it does nothing for them but bring suffering and advocates patriotism and the potential to form a new nation away from"royal tyranny"and inadequacy.
Raul, your second quote definitely impacted the colonies. The people finally realized how corrupted the British government was; which influenced the people to eliminate the idea of British tyranny. Kings were expected to know their country yet they lived an isolated life in royal courts. They weren't able to understand the needs of their people.
DeleteTruly powerful quotes that you chose. Here, as you stated, is Paine's direct call to arms and relinquishing of English titles. I can imagine the sense of pride that the colonists must have felt upon reading the first quote and thinking that they are their own people that have accomplished so much and do not need to succumb to the evils of the British government.
DeleteRaul, I really enjoyed reading your first quote, I can tell that there was a lot of meaning behind it. It is important for the colonies to come together and unite in order for the colonies to do great and better things.
Delete"There is something exceedingly ridiculous in the composition of Monarchy; it first excludes a man from the means of information, yet empowers him to act in cases where the highest judgment is required."
ReplyDelete- This quote really caught my attention because Thomas Paine is showing how absurd some of the principles of monarchy are. Paine is telling the reader that monarchy expects the king to act on very important cases facing the well being of his empire, even though in many occasions the king is clueless about the situations he is asked to act upon. Thomas Paine just wants to show people how ridiculous this is.
"Besides, what have we to do with setting the world at defiance? Our plan is commerce, and that, well attended to, will secure us the peace and friendship of all Europe; because it is the interest of all Europe to have America a free port. Her trade will always be a protection, and her barrenness of gold and silver secure her from invaders."
- Here Thomas Paine is trying to lessen the belief many colonist have that the colonies must be allied with Great Britain so that in case of war they will have the support of the British. Paine argues this by saying that the colonies do not need to be involved in any war. The Europeans and other nations will welcome trade from the Americas so they will not risk war with the colonies in fear of losing this trade. Thomas Paine is telling the colonies trade and commerce will be their defense against war.
Mauricio, I really liked the first quote that you had chosen. Paine really did not agree with the position of a monarchy and I know he isn't the only one. You made an excellent point on how the king tries to rule over a empire that he doesn't even know. He makes decisions off of little of his own knowledge of the problems and it usually did not help the situation. Monarchies can be very ridiculous! Good job!
DeleteI completely agree with your interpretations, Paine was stating that the monarchy and the king were practically ROYAL BRUTEs. Paine was trying to change the colonists beliefs and create a trading process to prevent war.
DeleteI find it ridiculous how they expected to fix any problem if they had no information on it. They were practically asking to make it worse and would have to deal with the situation in the future again.
Delete"In the early ages of the world, according to scripture chronology, there were no kings; the consequence of which was, there were no wars; it is the pride of kings which throw mankind into confusion."
ReplyDeleteI like this quote because without someone leading a group of people every battle almost always is small. It is when kings or leaders come into the picture that we have wars.
“We are already greater than the king wishes us to be, and will he not hereafter endeavor to make us less?”
This quote makes a great point against the king. It conveys to the people that the king wants to suppress the people and keep them as his subjects where he is really too far away to even control them.
“Monarchy is ranked in scripture as one of the sins of the Jews, for which a curse in reserve is denounced against them.”
I find this quote kind of confusing, but I think it means that because the Jews chose to have a monarchy they will always be seen as less for having a monarchy.
Jon, I found the first quote very interesting as well. When there are two nations in disagreement, it is the king who declares war and starts the larger battles. Without the king people would settle small disputes on their own and not get into nation versus nation as much.
DeleteI would also have to agree on the third quote that you picked. That is a hard statement to understand. I think that it is more or less stating that having a monarchy is a bad thing and it is considered a sin when you ask for it. They didn't need a monarchy yet they wanted it so bad they begged for a sin that would later prove to be the wrong choice.
"O! ye that love mankind! Ye that dare oppose not only the tyranny but the tyrant, stand forth! Every spot of the Old World is overrun with oppression. Freedom hath been hunted round the globe, Asia and Africa have long expelled her. Europe regards her as a stranger and England hath given her warning to depart. O! receive the fugitive and prepare in time an asylum for mankind."
ReplyDelete""Who the Author of this Production is, is wholly unnecessary to the Public, as the Object for Attention is the DOCTRINE ITSELF, not the MAN. Yet it may not be unnecessary to say, That he is unconnected with any Party, and under no sort of Influence public or private, but the influence of reason and principle."
I like the first quote becasue he is calling the people to action by showing freedom as a cause. It is directed at the Old World and the tyranny of the ROYAL BRUTE, telling the people they deserve to be free from oppression. The second I chose becasue it is a way of validating himself and his input. he is showing that there is no hidden agenda or self interest at stake, it makes the Common Sense articles even more influential becasue he is not associating with any particular political party, but simply calling on natural order and the concept of what is right and wrong. He declares that it wouldn't matter who was writing it, that the concepts in regard to the colonies treatment by England is what is important to evaluate.
“Common Sense hit Philadelphia like a thunderclap on a calm day. It startled people. It scared some, thrilled others, and enraged quite a few.”
ReplyDeleteI just love this quote and the image it depicts. This was not just another pamphlet written. It got people’s attention, it made a statement, and Paine was heard. No matter what the person thought of it, it hit most to the point of changing them emotionally and to get them to start thinking about what Thomas Paine had to say.
“The least fracture now will be like a name engraved with the point of a pin on the tender rind of a young oak; the wound will enlarge with the tree, and the posterity read it in full grown characters.”
This illustration, that his figurative language paints, is a greater picture than just the letters on the paper. He is basically saying that even the small mistakes that are made will still be scarred years later, and possibly even larger than they started out, in the foundation that we had begun with.
“Is the power who is jealous of our prosperity, a proper power to govern us? Whoever says No to this question is an independent, for independency means no more, than, whether we shall make our own laws, or, whether the king, the greatest enemy this continent hath, or can have, shall tell us “there shall be no laws but such as I like.”’
Sometimes I think the last line of this quote depicts the majority of American society. When people see laws they don’t like it becomes a large stance and sometime even a protest against it. It can be the little things to the big things, no one ever agrees on any issue. There is always a complaint and that’s what keeps the government moving and changing to new and sometimes better things.
“But where says some is the King of America? I’ll tell you Friends, he reigns above, and doth not make havoc of mankind like the Royal Brute of Britain.”
I find this quote very interesting because not only is Thomas Paine speaking poorly of the ROYAL BRUTE, but also because he is acknowledging the God above as the sovereign king of the United States of America. Not many people today believe that our political system and government was founded with a biblical background but it is here we see that even Paine admits that God is the king just like Britain’s king, but without wreaking havoc.
I totally agree with your opinion of the first quote, "Common Sense hit Philadelphia like a thunderclap on a calm day. It startled people. It scared some, thrilled others, and enraged quite a few." This quote really sets the picture of how people reacted once they heard about Paine's opinions. Paine provided practical reasons why the ties between America and England should be severed and the people were startled.
ReplyDeleteVery nice job for using the word of the week by the way!
"That the King it not to be trusted without being looked after; or in other words, that a thirst for absolute power is the natural disease of monarchy".
ReplyDeletea person that gains power will usually corrupt themselves, especially those born to gain the throne from their father. most kings in the past have abused their power in many ways. the king of England was really a ROYAL BRUTE for the way he treated his people, especially hiring mercenaries to fight them. I really liked how Paine explains that God did not intend for people to have a king, and were punished for even wanting a king.
"it first excludes a man from the means of information, yet empowers him to act in cases where the highest judgment is required. The state of a king shuts him from the World, yet the business of a king requires him to know it thoroughly". This quote really shows the point of view of a king because he has only seen the luxuries of a palace, and they do not see the effects of his decisions on the people. Most decisions that he makes do not involve him, unless it is to make his life better. They are the ones that lack the real knowledge of life. What do these ROYAL BRUTES know of a real life of working for your life?
Heather, I liked the first quote you selected. Pain grew up suffering from England's class system all because of the "Royal Brute," the king. It was because of the king that the people suffered and that is why many like Paine wanted their liberty from the British Empire.
DeleteHeather, I really enjoyed your fist quote and I definitely agree any person born in to power can become corrupt because they are born into this mindset of getting what they want. The king of England was a real ROYAL BRUTE in many ways.
Delete“Society in every state is a blessing, but government even in its best state is but a necessary evil; in its worst state an intolerable one…”
ReplyDelete- This quote makes me think that government in untrustworthy. All of our lives, we were brought up to always look up to the government. The government gives us laws to follow and we’re supposed to just follow them. What if one day the government made ridiculous laws and we had no choice but to follow them or else we’d be arrested? The government can become evil if they are not looking out for the society. They could just be looking for power and we are just giving it to them, those ROYAL BRUTES.
"Society is produced by our wants, and governments by our wickedness;"
- This quote makes me think that as a society we look out for what the society needs but once we get to the government, we stop caring about the society and mainly focus on the power. Power can get to ones head and I think that is what this quote is talking about.
"In the early ages of the world, according to scripture chronology, there were no kings; the consequence of which was, there were no wars; it is the pride of kings which throw mankind into confusion."
-This quote makes me realize that having someone in charge like a king (or president) is the reason for people to go against each other. Without someone in charge we wouldn’t worry about anyone but ourselves. Yes, the government can control violence and crime but can it also control our peace? This person in charge is making our own brothers and sisters go fight somebody else’s battles. We should just worry about our own problems and not focus on people that we have never met before.
I agree when you say that the government has always been a model figure we had to follow. If government goes haywire (which may already have) it would be very bad for society.
DeleteI also agree that government is needed for society. Without government there would be anarchy. It raises some questions about whether or not society can function without a government. With no laws and no control, society would surely crumble.
Delete"Oppression is often the consequence, but seldom or never the means of riches; and tho' avarice will preserve a man from being necessitous poor, it generally makes him too timorous to be wealthy."
ReplyDeleteThis quote caught my attention because it symbolizes the greed of the kings. The kings along with Britain are being lured by wealth and power that they often forget the needs of the people. Being greedy and rich doesn't necessarily mean that you are wealthy.
"It is not in numbers, but the unity, that our great strength lies; yet our present numbers are sufficient to repel the force of all the world."
This quote is basically stating that The Common Sense united plenty of individuals to finally become intimately independent from Britain. Paine believes that the time for action is now rather than later. He exhorts his fellow Americans to rise to action and do what he believes should be done; which is to detach from the ruling of Great Britain and the time of the ROYAL BRUTES.
I liked the last quote you stated, because it shows one of the greatest strengths of the colonist which was being united and fighting against the same enemy.
Delete"From the errors of other nations, let us learn wisdom."
ReplyDelete-This quote is very true and interesting. I believe that sometimes we do not learn wisdom from the errors or mistakes of other nations, but sadly sometimes repeat these errors. Throughout history, many countries and nations would make mistakes and through those mistakes. we have also learned how to fix them.
"When I was teaching children I began every day writing this on the blackboard:"Do to others what you would like them to do to you." telling them how much better the world would be if everybody lived by this rule."
-This quote is very similar to one of the quotes I heard while growing up which was to "treat others the way you want to be treated" which in others words, respect. I found it a nice quote because it is true that if everyone respected one another the world would be a better place, there would not be a lot of misunderstandings and arguments.
"Suspicion is the companion of mean souls, and the bane of all good society."
-This quote, once again I believe is very true. Suspicion is something that is devious and it would just cause distress to society. Once suspicion arises, it is hard once again to trust one another, always wondering about a certain situation that might not even be true.
Jamille, I liked all of your quotes especially the first one. At that time the "mother land" was not setting a good example for the colonies. They had other priorities which were not pleased by the people in the colonies. They wanted a new life, one apart from Britain and that first quote explains is all, they were going to be better then the other nations by learning from their mistakes.
DeleteHello Jamille,
DeleteI found all of the quotes you chose very interesting. Your responses and the development of your responses were clear and understandable. I also like how all the quotes can relate to everyone and they gave everyone a lesson.
Hello Jamille, I like all of your quotes. The first one says alot about learning from errors. Let us learn from others errors so that we as a nation can benefit and learn what not do and go about learning and doing in a much different and better way.
Delete“To say that the constitution of England is a Union of three powers reciprocally checking each other is farcical”
ReplyDeleteThese are very strong words that describe how ridiculous was England’s form of government. One of the three powers, The House of Commons was supposed to represent the people of England. It did not matter how wiser or smarter the House of Commons would be, at the end of the decision making their opinion would not have any power. The King’s decision would be the only one that would be considered. This shows how unequal the distribution of power was between the English Government.
“America would have flourished as much and probably much more and no European power taken any notice of her.”
I think this a very influential part of Thomas Paine’s book because it’s practically saying that the colonies would have been as successful or even more successful with and without the intervention of the English government. This is strong statement because it showed the people how the English government not only was holding back the colonist but demonstrated them that if hey freed themselves from the English government they would have a more promising future. The colonist needed something like this, something that would enforce an idea of a brighter future without a ROYAL BRUTE in charge.
Hello Julio,
DeleteI agree with you that the three powers of England were pointless and by no means incorporated the opinion of it's people. Even if the House of Commons tried to pass a law, it had to be checked by the king, and if the king did not like it, the law was not passed. What was the purpose of the House of Commons then? I find it unfair how the people worked hard to try and pass certain laws and all the king had to do is say no to dismiss their hard work. This was by no means representation of the people. As for your second quote, I also agree that America would have been more successful if England had not claimed it as its own. Luckily after many years they were able to become independent rather than not having become independent at all. Had it not been for Paine's pamphlet, many people would not have thought it possible that they can be free from England.
“America would have flourished as much, and probably much more, had no European power had any thing to do with her.”
ReplyDeleteI really like this quote because Paine points out that America could do better without the European, and it’s true. The European was only holding America back from the greatness they could have achieved.
"Society is produced by our wants, and governments by our wickedness”
I found this quote very intriguing yet confusing, but I think this quote is trying to say that our desires as a society created the wickedness of the governments. Our desires in the government’s eyes saw it as a weakness; hence, it driven the government to take advantage of the society.
“That the king is not to be trusted without being looked after, or in other words, that a thirst for absolute power is the natural disease of monarchy.”
I like this quote because it’s very straightforward. Paine states that the ROYAL BRUTE should not be trusted because all he wants is absolute power, not the will being of the people.
Hello Mary,
DeleteI totally agree with your comment on the first quote. Had America not been held back for so long by the ROYAL BRUTE, it would probably have achieved independence and happiness much faster. As for your second quote, my understanding is that the needs of the people is what makes and creates a society and governments are made by the selfishness and arrogance of people trying to rule over others.
On the quote: "Society is produced by our wants, and government by our wickedness."
DeleteI think this quote means that Society caters for the wants and needs of the people that are mutually living in it. The society is shared by people who have common interests. On the other hand, Government is driven be their interests and what's generally good for the better.
He argues that the government is unfit to rule because their King (George) is a ROYAL BRUTE.
ReplyDeleteI.“The wise, and the worthy, need not the triumph of a pamphlet; and those whose sentiments are injudicious, or unfriendly, will cease of themselves unless too much pains are bestowed upon their conversion.”
The quote states that wise and enlightened men should not be restricted by guidelines and restrictions (the pamphlet) that are meant to constrict their liberties and should not be deprive of their liberties by the British imperialists.
II. “Society is produced by our wants, and government by wickedness; the former promotes our happiness positively by uniting our affections, the latter negatively by restraining our vices. The one encourages intercourse, the other creates distinctions. The first is a patron, the last a punisher.”
In this quote, Thomas Paine differentiates government to society. Although in this generation, society and government goes hand and hand, it was not the case back then according to Paine. According to him, society is a place where the people of that society is mutually coexisting with other people based on their creed and common interests. On the other hand, he compares the government into a tyrannical regime.
III. “To the evil of monarchy we have added that of hereditary succession; and as the first is a degradation and lessening of ourselves, so the second, claimed as a matter of right, is an insult and imposition on posterity. 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, and tho' himself might deserve some decent degree of honours of his contemporaries, yet his descendants might be far too unworthy to inherit them.”
Thomas Paine criticizes monarchy, he expounds that it is absurd and insulting to deemed a person fit to rule because they have an inherent bloodline. He argues that men are suppose to be equal and a person should not be of higher importance because of their bloodline but because of their deeds and merits.
IV. “But Britain is the parent country, say some. Then the more shame upon her conduct. Even brutes do not devour their young, nor savages make war upon their families. Wherefore, the assertion, if true, turns to her reproach.”
Thomas Paine criticizes the mistreatment of Americans (Children) by the British Empire (Parent) comparing them to savages and barbarians. This further solidifies his statement that King George is the ROYAL BRUTE of England.
V. “Europe is too thickly planted with Kingdoms to be long at peace, and whenever a war breaks out between England and any foreign power, the trade of America goes to ruin, because of her connection with Britain. The next war may not turn out like the last, and should it not, the advocates for reconciliation now will be wishing for separation then, because neutrality in that case would be a safer convoy than a man of war.”
Thomas Paine argues that England's involvement with high profile wars and conflicts are dragging America down as America getting taxed heavily to pay for the costly wars.
Hey Paul! haha are you joey's friend?
DeleteAnyway, I found your arguments to be very interesting. You supported your claim and you felt confident for what you had to say. I also admire the interpretations that you had for each quote. They seemed to be well said and analyzed.
Hi Tricia! Yes I am Joey's friend, indeed. Thank you. I found your blog quite knowledgeable too.
Delete“For as in absolute governments the King is law, so in free countries the law ought to be King; and there ought to be no other” (98).
ReplyDeletePaine clearly points out that in a monarchy, the king makes his own laws without the opinion of the people. The laws merely reflect his personal needs and selfishness. He emphasized the importance of the people to reflect and question that although England was once good for the colonies, the current events made the colonies better off independently. I found this quote interesting because Paine was concerned for the independence of the colonies and realized that the more time passed, America would have more difficulties to become independent. This is because those who were experienced in war were getting older and at some point, there would be no one with experience to aid in the battle for independence.
“How came the king by a power which the people are afraid to trust, and always obliged to check? Such a power could not be the gift of a wise people, neither can any power, which needs checking, be from God; yet the provision, which the constitution makes, supposes such a power to exist” (70).
This quote was confusing for me. My interpretation of this quote was that if the power of the government needs to be modified, then God did not appoint it. I was confused by this because from the beginning of the book I get the message that Paine was atheist and a person of reason, but later on in the pamphlet I get the feeling he is religious. If Paine was indeed atheist, then why does he say that the power was not God’s if it needed to be checked and if the power did not need to be checked, then it was God’s work? I am quite confused.
I had the same thought about the first quote as well. I think the message Paine is trying to get across is clearly pointed out in the quote.
Delete"Society in every state is a blessing, but government even in its best state is but a necessary evil."
ReplyDelete-I disagree with this statement because even though society is a blessing, the government is not necessarily evil. If it was not for the government protecting us or even creating laws, this world would be in chaos. Beside, it was the people themselves that demanded for a government. Because of people's inconsideration and selfishness, the streets would be filled with garbage. We needed the government and we depended on the government, therefore, giving them full power.
"It is the good fortune of many to live distant from the scene of sorrow; the evil is not sufficiently brought to their doors to make them feel the precariousness with which all American property is possessed."
- I think this quote means that people would feel safer somewhere they have not heard nor witnessed a tragic event. For example, if earthquakes happen constantly in one location, people would be hesitant to live there. Also, I think the second part of the quote means to say that evil or danger doesn't simply knock on your door just to make people fearful. it is also seen in different parts of the world. I think tries to make the reader appreciate of what they have and to think that other people have it worse.
"Small islands not capable of protecting themselves, are the proper objects for kingdoms to take under their care.."
-I found this quote to be very true. This is because small lands that does not have enough people to protect it can be easily manipulated by the bigger lands. For example, in the past, adventurers and explorers will travel to different islands to conquer because the tribes would be few in number or poor. Even today, if United States does not have enough men to protect it, other countries will take over.
Hi Tricia! I like your interpretations of the quotes. I completely agree with the first one. We definitely need the government in order to have a society or else there would be chaos. Government should be given power but not too much since power is the start of the "evil." Power can be abused in my opinion. Very nice!
DeleteYou picked out some great quotes! I see your point on the first one definitely. I think that the government's overall outcome SHOULD be beneficial to the people being governed, and in the end most would consider it a good thing. I think the evil that Paine was referring to in the very essence of government had to do with the fact that while society offers "positive" reinforcement ("lets work together!" or "2 heads are greater than 1!") government offers "negative" reinforcement ("you can't do this or that" or "give me your power of decision-making and just TRUST ME"). Basically what I gathered was that the negativity associated with what government does is why Paine considered it an "evil", though it is an evil that is implemented for the greater good.
DeleteUnless the government is a bunch of ROYAL BRUTES!
“I know it is difficult to get over local or long standing prejudices, yet if we will suffer our selves to examine the component parts of the English constitution, we shall find them to be the base remains of two ancient tyrannies compounded with some new republican materials.”
ReplyDeleteThomas Paine is saying that the English constitution is flooded with tyranny. There should be a new constitution without tyranny or unlawful taxing. The English have no sympathy for what their colonist are going through all they care about is making the money back they spent.
"There is something exceedingly ridiculous in the composition of Monarchy; it first excludes a man from the means of information, yet empowers him to act in cases where the highest judgment is required.”
Thomas Paine is saying that giving one person the power to rule over you and make decisions on your behalf is ridiculous. Nobody wants to be forced into paying taxes. So why not embrace revolting from England.
I totally agree with what you about your last quote!
Deletenobody wants to be forced to pay ridiculous unnecessary taxes, I can see why everyone went against them too! I would have joined them and rebelled against the ROYAL BRUTE also if I lived during that time haha
“Alas! we have been long led away by ancient prejudices and made large sacrifices to superstition.”
ReplyDelete- I found this quote very interesting and powerful. Here Paine is telling his people that it is time now, it is the time that they finally stopped suffering and living making sacrifices for Great Britain the place that only cared about their own interest and did not care about them. This quote is really powerful because here Paine is telling his people to stand up for themselves. He is telling them that they finally had enough of the lies, enough of everything relating to Britain.
“In the early ages of the world, according to the scripture chronology there were no kings; the consequence of which was, there were no wars; it is the pride of kings which throws mankind into confusion.”
- I liked this quote because Paine here explains that having a king is just unnecessary. It explains that the earlier ages there were no kings and no wars. Without a king the people would have more peace and tranquility and it is because of the kings control that is confusing the people.
“The authority of Great Britain over this continent, is a form of government, which sooner or later must have an end: And a serious mind can draw no true pleasure by looking forward, under the painful and positive conviction that what he calls "the present constitution" is merely temporary.”
- I really liked this quote because Paine explains how the government that for so long made their people suffer needed to end. He says how there is no true pleasure in looking down in the future with the same government that it why it will only be temporary. This shows the power of Paine as an individual who wants to go against the government.
Anakaren, I completely agree with all your interpretations of each quote. Especially the first and last quote were spot on.Thomas Paine writes throughout Common Sense about tearing away from Britain. Its interesting how his words could influence others to break free from King George.
DeleteThere were only two quotes that I truly found interesting.
ReplyDelete“Society in every state is a blessing, but Government, even in its best state, is but a necessary evil;”
This quote had lots of meanings which I found interesting. My interpretation of this quote is us individuals have the power but it is limited. This is the “blessing” in my opinion. Since us individuals have limited power, we have little ways of causing endangerment to people. That’s the blessing! We have the power to vote, speak out to our opinions (that does not influence riots, violence and such), and more however, the Government has more power than society which can be abused. Even if the Government is in its best state, misused Government power can ruin society itself. I believe that without the government, there would be no society but with an overpowered government that abuses power, we would have little to no freedom at all. This is what I see as the “Necessary Evil.” We do need the government in order for our society to be on the right path. Also, if the Government fails, we also pay the price in my opinion which is also the “Necessary Evil” in my opinion.
"Society is produced by our wants, and governments by our wickedness;"
I interpretation of this quote as us individuals (society) having limited freedom and satisfy our lives. Like I mentioned in the other quote above this one, there is no such thing as a society without a government. We will never have a “peaceful” society thanks to the Government. Our needs are limited. It’s like a double edge sword, we need the Government to build society yet we will never achieve a true peaceful civilization due to the restrictions. What I mean by true peaceful civilization is having perfect freedom. Laws restrict our freedom. The government puts laws in our daily activities to prevent harm to society. If there were no laws, society would be a wreck! This is what I think this quote means in my opinion. I am a little bit confused though from “our wickedness.” This is the meaning I see behind this quote.
"For all men being originally equals, no one by birth could have the right to set up his own family in perpetual preference to all others forever, and tho' himself might deserve some decent degree of honors of his contemporaries, yet his descendants might be far too unworthy to inherit them."
ReplyDelete- Here Paine is referring to a monarchy. He describes how all men are born equal, and therefore no single man should be able to put his family as superior to any other family. That man in particular could achieve honor and respect, but that does not guarantee his future generations will deserve it. They must earn it with the same level of equality as everyone else.
"There is something exceedingly ridiculous in the composition of Monarchy; it first excludes a man from the means of information, yet empowers him to act in cases where the highest judgment is required."
- In a monarchy, people stick to solely worrying about their own class. They disregard lower classes as they see them inferior. But due to this, they are clueless about any problems or actions that are going on in any class other than their own. This is absurd, as this ill-informed ROYAL BRUTE attempts to fix a problem, he has the chance of worsening the situation. They are blindly ruling the lower class, which is destined to cause turmoil and unrest.
Where there are no distinctions there can be no superiority, perfect equality affords no temptation. The republics of Europe are all (and we may say always) in peace. Holland and swisserland are without wars, foreign or domestic. Monarchical governments it is true, are never long at rest; the crown itself is a temptation to enterprising ruffians at home” 29
- Paine expresses how in societies where everyone is portrayed as equal, the level of peace is significantly increased. It is when specific people are given superiority over others that unrest begins to arise. This is exactly what is happening with the Crown. With the monarchy, it is creating many “ruffians” which will unsettle the peace.
Good quotes! Tearing down the idea of monarchy was definitely needed in this publication to help the colonists realize they were being taken advantage of, and help them realize they need to do something about it.
Delete"Society in every state is a blessing, but government even in its best state is but a necessary evil."
ReplyDeleteWhile this quote may be true to some, I believe that a government is needed to maintain order in society. States are inadequate to solve their own porblems so we rely on the government to help solve the problems. Attitudes towards government have shifted over time and has become normal to rely on the government. Without laws and control, anarchy would regin. Because society relies on the government, that is how they obtain their power.
Another quote I found interesting was, "America would have flourished as much, and probably much more, had no European power had anything to do with her."
This quote states that America would have been better off had no European influence were involved. Since America was booming, there was no need for European influence because America was doing fine on its own.
The last quote I found is, "There is something exceedingly ridiculous in the composition of Monarchy; it first excludes a man from the means of information, yet empowers him to act in cases where the highest judgment is required.”
Paine states that giving one person power and the ability to make people's decisions for them, is absurd. That is the beauty of democracy, the ability to have free will and all the benefits that come with it. It's just like a Totalitarian government where people are ruled under one person where they are forced to believe and act in certain ways. No person wants to be forced to do anything.
Hello Tavon, really good quotes, I agree with you that government puts order in society, even though we think the only thing it does is controlling us , but at the same time is helping us.
Deleteand of curse No person wants to be forces to do anything. ( good point).
Tavon, i agree with all of your interpretation of each quote you chose to explain. You made it very clear that you understood what was being said and what the quote meant according to you. I really liked the quote about America flourishing without the help of European power. America was doing good on its own and didnt need the power of the Europeans to selfishly take from them for its own gain.
DeleteTavon, on your second quote, do you believe that America would have flourished without ever needing the assistance or guidance from Europe? I like the quote, but I'm not entirely sure that I agree with it. I believe that America may not have benefited from the degree of power that Europe held over them, however, if they had not had that power to break, then would they still have flourished the way they did? Would they still have written a document similar to the Declaration of Independence? I don't even know the answer to these questions, but I do believe that they needed that rebellious push to thrive in the ways that they did in the 1700s. Just my opinion though :)
DeleteHey Tavon, good choice in quotes. On your first quote, I agree with you that society needs to be governed in order to maintain a stabled society. Although, some people may have an opinion as to how evil the government may be, people tend to over see the good it does to us as whole.
Delete"... government even in its best state is but a necessary evil; in its worst state an intolerable one..."
ReplyDeleteThis is a great quote, and one thats meaning has never diminished. Paine acknowledges the fact that government does provide a benefit in the long run. It's "the whole is greater than the sum of its parts" mentality pretty much. This benefit, however, is achieved through means of negative affects. Government, when operating as it should, is placing restrictions and boundaries on its people. It involves people relinquishing their own personal power and freedom to someone else, for the greater good. This is a delicate balance, and if the government abuses the power it took from its people, then the negative influence on the people is effectively doubled. this is why the "necessary" evil of the government becomes "intolerable".
"The state of a king shuts him from the world, yet the business of a king requires him to know it thoroughly; wherefore the different parts, by unnaturally opposing and destroying each other, prove the whole character to be absurd and useless."
This quote is basically illustrating how the idea of a monarch, in and of itself, is fundamentally flawed. Kings live lavishly, separated from the rest of society and excused of all the hard work and turmoil that goes along with being a member of that society, yet they are tasked with passing judgement and rule in matters concerning that society. Someone so disconnected should not be able to set the rules for everyone else.
"Even (royal) brutes do not devour their young..."
Here, Paine is arguing that England's actions against America are comparable to or worse than any example of a brute in nature. Animals in nature, at least most of them, take care of and look out for the best interests of their young. Even the most terrible and vicious of creatures take care of their offspring. Basically he is trying to illustrate that the malicious behavior exhibited by England was inexcusable and evil, and that they are a bunch of royal brutes.
Nicole, I love that you chose the quote about how government is a necessary evil as well. Isn't crazy how his quote remains true even to this day? I couldn't agree with you more on that even when the government is running smoothly, that it is still taking away the personal power of the people. And I think you're exactly right that when the government begins to abuse its power, which it often does, it quickly becomes intolerable.
Delete"Men who look upon themselves born to reign and others to obey, soon grow insolent: selected from the rest of mankind their minds are early poisoned by importance; and the world they act in differs so materially from the world at large that they have but little opportunity of knowing its true interests and when they succeed to the government are frequently the more ignorant and unfit of any throughout the dominions."
ReplyDeleteRight before this quote Thomas Pain writes the keywords Foolish, Wicked, and Improper. He is describing the King and all who are royal and obey the royal. He is also calling them rude, arrogant and evil. He directly calls King George a ROYAL BRUTE and describes that the king does not deserve any respect from any american.
"First--That the king is not to be trusted without being looked after, or in other wonders that a thirst for absolute power is the natural disease of monarchy."
This quote from Thomas Pain describes that having total power is a bad quality thus what makes monarchy evil. He also states that the king can not be trusted with this absolute power.
"It is repugnant to reason, to the universal order of things to all examples from former ages, to suppose that this continent can longer remain subject to any external power"
This quote is very clear in that Paine wants freedom from the British monarchy and is encouraging others to think and want the same. He clearly states that their is no reason why they are still under power from from the British and so that they must stand up for their independence.
Letty, I thought that the first part of the quote was very strong worded, but it was great, it just kind of stood out. "Men who look upon themselves born to reign and others to obey, soon grow insolent" it is kind of like saying people who are born for them to lead and others to follow because they feel like they are capable to do so is kind of being arrogant and it kind of explains how the colonist were feeling during that time.
Delete“There is something exceedingly ridiculous in the composition of Monarchy; it first excludes a man from the means of information, yet empowers him to act in cases where the highest judgment is required. The state of a king shuts him from the World, yet the business of a king requires him to know it thoroughly; wherefore the different parts, by unnaturally opposing and destroying each other, prove the whole character to be absurd and useless.”
ReplyDelete-My understanding from this quote is that in a Monarchy system only one man is chosen to be the king and rule the people of its country. The man has the power to control the society and create the rules he thinks are correct for the society.
“Some writers have explained the English constitution thus: the King, say they, is one, the people another;”
-We all are the same in this world, there are no differences and in Monarchy they see the king as the only one that can rule and they see him different than the rest of the society. When the truth is that we all are equal.
“Society is produced by our wants, and governments by our wickedness”
-Government is produces by our wickedness, because there are things in society that we can’t take the control of, and there is where the government takes advantage of.
"Society in every state is a blessing, but government even in its best state is but a necessary evil."
-Society is a blessing because society is all the people, having families and friends is a blessing, but when it comes to “government” we are talking about evil, because we are being manipulated by it.
Hi Olga i just wanted to say i like how you explained your understanding from the second quote you presented, and how in the quote it's basically saying the king and the people are on totally different levels.
DeleteThese are the quotes which stood out to me the most.
ReplyDelete"Society is produced by our wants, and governments by our wickedness;"
What I interpret from this quote is that society is brought about by what the people want. The people want a “peaceful” place where they can live in harmony. A place where there is no crime, no problems, where success is easily attained, no racism or prejudice, just a place they can call home. The people put the government in place in order to reach everything they desired, but the government took it upon themselves to abuse the power the people have given them. The government makes all sorts of laws to help benefit them for their own personal gain. Some of the things the government put in place for the people to follow do help but in all reality, we have a lot of restrictions. We are supposed to be a free society but yet our freedom is limited. For example, we have to freedom to voice whatever we want to say, that is the right of an American citizen. If we voice our opinion or views on something long enough in public, we could be arrested for disturbing the peace. Seems like for every freedom we have in America, its counterpart is a law. That’s what I interpret from this quote.
"In the early ages of the world, according to scripture chronology, there were no kings; the consequence of which was, there were no wars; it is the pride of kings which throw mankind into confusion."
This quote is basically saying before a king was even thought of, the cost of not having one was synchronization among the people. The people did not have to deal with wars or others trying to take over their land. When the people put in place a king, he brought confusion among the people which caused wars and the greed of wanting more.
Ramondo, I completely agree on how you interpreted both of these quotes. That government/kings create the chaos of greed and use the citizens to get what they want, whether it be land or control. The government was created to keep peace and fairness for the people, but ,as you said, they took advantage over that power for their own gains.
Delete"Society in every state is a blessing, but government even in its best state is but a necessary evil; in its worst state an intolerable one..."
ReplyDelete- I thought this quote was well-worded by Thomas Paine. This pamphlet was written a couple hundred years ago and stills rings true to government today. Thomas Paine seemed to realize that despite how frustrating a government might be, that it is necessary to have some form of rule and order in society.
"Absolute government... have this advantage with them, that they are simple..."
- I'm not sure if I misinterpreted this quote while I was reading the book, but I took it that Thomas Paine believes that there are simple governments out there. If this is in fact what he meant, then I would have to disagree with him because I don't believe there is one government that is remotely simple at all. They are either poorly organized, ruled by ROYAL BRUTES who want all of the power, or just plainly don't function well at all. Not to sound harsh, but that's how government was in the 18th century and that is definitely how it is today.
"... that the nation may suffer for years together without being able to discover in which part the fault lies, some will say in one and some in another, and every political physician will advise a different medicine."
- This was yet another quote that I really loved from Thomas Paine that just seemed to hit the nail on the head. I can't get over how true things still are today, even thought this man wrote this over 100 years ago.
"In short, monarchy and succession have laid (not this or that kingdom only) but the world in blood and ashes. 'Tis a form of government which the word of God bears testimony against, and blood will attend it."
ReplyDeleteThis quote was mind blowing. The ROYAL BRUTES that are suppose to look over the land and the people, spill blood for their own pride and greed. These kings that were supposedly chosen by God and their only proof being their blood are selfish and they have only mind set for themselves.
"Government, like dress, is the badge of lost innocence; the palaces of kings are built upon the ruins of the bowers of paradise."
ReplyDeleteThis caught my attention primarily because of the certain elegance with which it was written. Although the matter that is being described is not pleasant or elegant in itself, Paine's usage of words make it seem so. This, I think, is able to add dramatic effect to the point which Paine is trying to convey: that governments are simply a "necessary evil" that must come about when humanity can no longer keep their vices in check. The line that mentions "badge of lost innocence" strongly brings to mind the story of Adam and Eve and the forbidden fruit; punishment and rules were only given to Adam and Eve after giving into temptation.
"First. — That the King it not to be trusted without being looked after; or in other words, that a thirst for absolute power is the natural disease of monarchy.
Secondly. — That the Commons, by being appointed for that purpose, are either wiser or more worthy of confidence than the Crown."
Again, Paine's command of language and ability to capture the reader's attention is what made me notice this line. He is literally pinpointing what is good and bad about current English government. The ROYAL BRUTE, in other words, the king, is what Paine seems to think is the biggest problem with English government, and I can definitely agree; no one man can be trusted with the well-being of an entire country, humans are far too selfish and flawed for that kind of responsibility. Paine seems to be in favor of the Commons and their "people-based" philosophy of helping the king to rule. Paine later goes on to basically state that although the Commons are in place, their authority is not very high since the king has the ability to check them as well. It is interesting to know that these ideas are what grew into the creation of a government that is chosen for the people and by the people and that may be checked at all levels to insure that the best is being done for the overall cause. It is also interesting, however, that the government that resulted from these words still ended up being headed by one individual. Granted that the president is not believed to have divine authority, but it is still interesting to note that the founding fathers were still unable to completely get away from having one person be the head of the government.
I also loved the the second quote you chose, Irene. In addition to your response, I want to emphasize the part, "...a thirst for absolute power is the natural disease of monarchy." This says to me that greed kills a leader. It is very straight forward and will always carry truth within itself. Greed is a powerful temptation. It is common for even the best of people to fall into its deep trenches. I love the use of "disease" for this quote. A disease is often chronic, meaning progressively worsening till death. This would mean that greed, like a disease, captures its host, consuming him/her more and more until the collapse of a government/monarchy. Beautiful.
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDelete“Monarchy is ranked in scripture as one of the sins of the Jews, for which a curse in reserve is denounced against them. The history of that transaction is worth attending to.”
ReplyDeleteHow could a family be ordained royal or considered to be a leader because of someone in their family line as if they are capable of the same abilities because they share the same blood of a previous ruler? I find this quote to be interesting because people had knowledge of how wrongful monarchy was, yet the British the continued the practice.
"I know it is difficult to get over local or long standing prejudices, yet if we will suffer ourselves to examine the component parts of the English Constitution, we shall find them to be the base remains of two ancient tyrannies, compounded with some new Republican materials"
I find this quote to be interesting simply because it causes controversy. The components that construct the English constitution counteract with each other. Thomas Paine was clearly a man before his time that seemed to be bias of the early prejudices. Paine made his point that a we intended on having an equal country but failed to do so.
“Common sense will tell us, that the power which hath endeavored to subdue us is of all others, the most improper to defend us.”
I found this to be interesting because I believe that there is such thing as a power. I also believe that there isn't such thing as a perfect power, therefore flaws will appear. When the flaws of your leader are so harsh that they over power their positives, then it is time to find a better way to control things, possibly even a more efficient leader.
"Why is it that we hesitate? From Britain we expect nothing but ruin.If she is admitted to the government of America again, this continent will not be worth living in."
ReplyDelete-I found this quote interesting for the reason that it began with a question, arousing the reader to think thoroughly of the passage that is to come. In this quotes, Paine is simply trying to create an image as to how unpleasant it would be to live in a continent governed by Britain. I like how he comes about expressing his thoughts very bluntly.
"Society in every state is a blessing, but government even in its state is but a necessary evil."
-Well for one, i though this quote to be interesting because a lot of my classmates chose to write about it. As i read the quote in my reading, i guess it stood out to me also. I believe Paine thinks of the government as evil maybe because of the decisions made that he may not have agreed on or b/c of injustice acts he may have witnessed due to government orders. His dislike towards the government is contradicted with the means that although the government in his eyes is evil, he still knows that it is still needed in order for society to maintain in order and/or stabled. I would definitely agree with that, people are so use to being told what to do, without the government, people would not know how to maintain a stabled society, and that is why government is a blessing.
“The wise, and the worthy, need not the triumph of a pamphlet; and those, whose sentiments are injudicious, or unfriendly, will cease of themselves unless too much pains are bestowed upon their conversion.”
ReplyDelete- I found this quote to be very interesting, I believe that what Paine was trying to get at is that he is relating the idea that truly moral individuals don’t need recognition, and that the wicked will try to seek out that recognition.
“Many circumstances hath, and will arise, which are not local, but universal, and through which the principles of all Lovers of Mankind are affected, and in the Event of which, their Affections are interested.”
- I believe this quote kind of made sense to me, I thought it did sound interesting because what I got from it was that we as a society are affected when something we have an interest in is being affected.
“Society is produced by our wants, and government by our wickedness; the former promotes our happiness POSITIVELY by uniting our affections, the latter NEGATIVELY by restraining our vices. The one encourages intercourse, the other creates distinctions. The first is a patron, the last a punisher.”
- I thought this quote was very interesting, I think that Paine was trying to discuss how human affairs should be governed by certain ethical principles, and the idea that society comes together through common goals while the government keeps it in check.
Thomas Paine has a number of very strong and innovative ideas (for that time) of which he quotes in "Common Sense". Because I wrote so many down I have decided to choose my first three.
ReplyDelete-"...a long habit of not thinking a thing wrong, gives it a superficial appearance of being right, and raises at first a formidable outcry in defense of custom."
^ I love this quote for it's versatility and because it is a timeless universal "law" so to speak. If you are raised doing something everyday or learn something as "truth", "law", "right", or "just" you believe it to be so. Only because you have never stopped and thought to think why. So in reality that "truth" may not be "just". That "truth" is merely a superficial. It seems "just" because everyone does it and says it to be so. This is crucial to the colonists thought process. They began their quest under these presuppositions that eventually evolved to reason.
-"The cause of America is in great measure the cause of all mankind."
^To me this quote has two meanings. The first meaning would be that the colonists share one dominant goal. And in this goal there is a deeper goal (more like a desire) of freedom. Not only do the early colonists strive for freedom (which represents "America"), but so did the first pilgrims seeking religious refuge. It is a basic human characteristic/instinct to yearn for freedom as opposed to restrictions. Therefore, the "cause of America" is the "cause of all mankind".
Although I don't think Thomas Paine intended the second meaning/symbolism that I found (or maybe he did being that he was so beyond his time compared to his fellow colonists), I feel like it can be used to today to represent the present citizens of the U.S. The United States is in constant search of mankind's "justice". Whether we should or shouldn't be in another country's business does not concern us. We search to seek out a greater "cause", that all of "mankind" succeeds in personal, just freedom.
I feel that the second symbolism I can see is what makes the quote so beautiful and enriching. This was said hundreds of years ago and yet still applies, as if America's cause will never be completed until each person has received equal opportunities of freedom. Freedom of which always has a ROYAL BRUTE to stand in the way, persecuting those brave enough to stand up for their birth rights.
-"Society is produced by our wants and the government by our wickedness; the former promotes our happiness POSITIVELY by uniting our affections, the later NEGATIVELY by restraining our voices."
^ I chose this quote because I agree with the contrasts that Paine made. Society is merely a generalization of our population concerning any topic, pattern, or human understandings and mannerisms. It is no wonder that he would chose to define it as the product of our wants. We mostly do what we desire to do or compromise in order to alter tasks to become as desirable as possible. It does "promote happiness POSITIVELY by uniting our affections" so to speak.
The government is without a doubt the other extreme to the spectrum since its functionality is to provide order, which we see as "wickedness", especially when the ROYAL BRUTE wants to suppress his citizens. With order comes regulations, rules, restrictions, and conformity. When down incorrectly it "NEGATIVELY " promotes "happiness" "by restraining our voices".
“Common Sense” written by Thomas Paine is clearly wrapped around the idea of tearing away from Great Britain. I found it interesting how Thomas Paine’s words influenced others so much and caused everyone to break free from the ROYAL BRUTE King George. Some quotes I found very interesting in the reading were:
ReplyDelete1. “But Britain is the parent country, say some. Then the more shame upon her conduct. Even brutes do not devour their young, nor savages make war upon their families. Wherefore, the assertion, if true, turns to her reproach.”
-In this quote, Paine discusses the ill-treatment of the Americans by Great Britain . He compares them to beasts and monsters. This quote strengthens his declaration about King George being the ROYAL BRUTE of England.
2. "America would have flourished as much, and probably much more, had no European power had anything to do with her."
-Paine brings out in this quote that the colonies would have prospered more if no Europeans would have been involved. He basically states that America was doing great and would have done so much better if England had not engaged and associated themselves in their business.
3. "Society in every state is a blessing, but government even in its best state is but a necessary evil."
-I honestly do not agree with this quote that Thomas Paine stated. I do believe that society is a blessing but I do not believe that the government is necessarily evil. The government protect us and creates laws in order to keep chaos from occurring. The laws the government creates keeps everyone and everything organized. Without government the world would be quite chaotic. In my opinion, nothing would be in order and people would be breaking law and causing mayhem. America needs and fully depends on the government to keep a system and organization in the country.
“Society is produced by our wants, and government by wickedness; the former promotes our happiness positively by uniting our affections, the latter negatively by restraining our vices. The one encourages intercourse, the other creates distinctions. The first is a patron, the last a punisher.”
ReplyDeleteFor me this quote is very interesting due to the way Paine decided to word it. In the beginning. Society is always promoting things that we want from the government, its things that we want to happen, but once it doesn't happen because the government does not see it as a way where they can keep in control it just shows that at times the government is trying to keep us from rising and say what we think or feel about certain things. The ROYAL BRUTE was seen as this. He did not want the colonies to do anything to gain power and control. The king was always wanting to stay in control. Like yeah they want to have the colonies have some type of freedoms but at the same time they don't want them to have too much because they might rebel against them and lose all type of control.
"Society in every state is a blessing, but government even in its best state is but necessary evil; in its worst state an intolerable one; for when we suffer, or are exposed to same miseries..."
- I do believe that society regardless of how it is in a way it is a blessing because things can always be worse. but it kind of shows how there is this fine line between us and the government which is even though they speak on behalf of the people at the end of the day we all suffer it does not mater if you are or are not active in the government there is still going to be problems.
"And as this frequent interchange will establish a common interest with every part of the community, they will mutually and naturally support each other, and on this (not on the unmeaning name of the king) depends the STRENGTH OF GOVERNMENT, AND THE HAPPINESS OF THE GOVERNED."
- I thought this quote was very interesting, it kind of explains how the government is, well the way we elect our people who voice us so the people who become our senators, mayors, and other government officials, they little by little start to make some types of connections with parts of the community, they find things that relate to a particular community and they start to say some things that you believe in so they can get a vote for them. when they do elect them, they do want to stay in the position that they received so they try to build relationships with them. They want to feel like they did connect and eventually they will both come together to show support because they want to come together, not because the ROYAL BRUTE is making them come together and show them support. If the people is happy with the way a certain government official is running the show so then they will be happy and it will just make the connection of the people. it all makes the government even stronger.
"Youth is the the seed of good habits, as well in nations as in individuals"
- I think that in this part, Paine is trying to describe how the colonies is still young and the thought that someday the nation youth will make it on its own is crazy to think, but when you are young, you kind of think that you can conquer the world, because you are filled with so much energy; you have so much ambition to do things. when you are young there is so much that you can invest to see progress over time. To this day the United States is a young nation, but that does not mean that we are not good enough, it just means that we are still in progress and learning.
"In the early ages of the world, according to the scripture chronology there were no kings; the consequence of which was, there were No wars"
ReplyDeleteI found this quote very interesting because it brings up a time where there was nobody in a high position trying to obtain wealth, land or power. The result of no one in power seemed to eliminate the idea of one feeling as if they were a lesser value, and not try to obtain greater value because there was no ROYAL BRUTE in power. If no one is in power, everyone is seen as equal and results in less conflict amongst the people. This of course changes, and I think we as humans naturally have this competitive side to us where we want more in life. At one point in time someone had to think that they were of higher value, and found a way to convince the people to serve them. This creates an imbalance of power, and takes a non-selfish leader to create change for the people.
"Tis not in numbers but in unity that our great strength lies"
I found this quote to be very true because you can have the best of the best in your team, and if you don't click as a unit all you have is dead weight in which nobody is willing to work with one another to obtain the unreachable goals that can be obtainable if the people would just help one another.
We ought not now to be debating whether we shall be independent or not, but anxious to accomplish it on a firm, secure, and honorable basis, and uneasy rather that is not yet began upon.
In this quote it seems that Paine is asserting the importance that the people shouldn't debate whether to go on with it or not he is demanding the people to obtain the strong bond of becoming independent.