Political Quotes

Thomas Paine: If, therefore, the good to be obtained be worthy of a passive, rational, and costless revolution, it would be bad policy…

On the recordJanuary 1, 1791
If, therefore, the good to be obtained be worthy of a passive, rational, and costless revolution, it would be bad policy to prefer waiting for a calamity that should force a violent one.
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Thomas Paine

Editor's note · Context

From "Rights of Man," Paine argues for pursuing rational, peaceful reforms to achieve good rather than waiting for a crisis that necessitates violent revolution.

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