On the recordJanuary 1, 1791
That a nation ought to have a constitution, as a rule for the conduct of its government, is a simple question in which all men, not directly courtiers, will agree.
Said by
Thomas Paine
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gutenberg.orgThomas Paine: “That a nation ought to have a constitution, as a rule for the conduct of its government, is a simple question in which…”
Editor's note · Context
In "Rights of Man," this statement asserts the fundamental agreement among non-courtiers that a nation requires a constitution to guide its government.
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Jan 1, 1791
As to what are called national religions, we may, with as much propriety, talk of national Gods.
Jan 1, 1791
Why may we not suppose, that the great Father of all is pleased with variety of devotion; and that the greatest offence we can act, is that by which we seek to torment and render each other miserable?
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I do not believe that any two men, on what are called doctrinal points, think alike who think at all.
Jan 1, 1791
But as religion is very improperly made a political machine, and the reality of it is thereby destroyed, I will conclude this work with stating in what light religion appears to me.