Thomas Paine

It has its origin in the principles of society and the natural constitution of man.

Great part of that order which reigns among mankind is not the effect of government.

It robs industry of its honours, by pedantically making itself the cause of its effects; and purloins from the general character of man, the merits that appertain to him as a social being.

Though it avoids taking to its account the errors it commits, and the mischiefs it occasions, it fails not to arrogate to itself whatever has the appearance of prosperity.

The danger to which the success of revolutions is most exposed is that of attempting them before the principles on which they proceed, and the advantages to result from them, are sufficiently seen and understood.

It interests not particular individuals, but nations in its progress, and promises a new era to the human race.

Government founded on a moral theory, on a system of universal peace, on the indefeasible hereditary Rights of Man, is now revolving from west to east by a stronger impulse than the government of the sword revolved from east to west.

This certainly is not the condition that heaven intended for man; and if this be monarchy, well might monarchy be reckoned among the sins of the Jews.

What is the history of all monarchical governments but a disgustful picture of human wretchedness, and the accidental respite of a few years' repose?

While such governments continue, peace has not the absolute security of a day.

War is their trade, plunder and revenue their objects.

If universal peace, civilisation, and commerce are ever to be the happy lot of man, it cannot be accomplished but by a revolution in the system of governments.