As the principle on which constitutions are now formed rejects all hereditary pretensions to government, it also rejects all that catalogue of assumptions known by the name of prerogatives.
Thomas Paine: “As the principle on which constitutions are now formed rejects all hereditary pretensions to government, it also rejects…”
Editor's note · Context
From 'Rights of Man,' this passage asserts that modern constitutional principles inherently oppose hereditary rule and governmental prerogatives.
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Many of the facts were in themselves principles; such as the declaration of American Independence, and the treaty of alliance between France and America, which recognised the natural rights of man, and justified resistance to oppression.
It was become evident, that no constitution, worthy of being called by that name, could be established on anything less than a national ground.
They form a common policy throughout Europe, detached and separate from the interest of Nations: and while they appear to quarrel, they agree to plunder.
I know the value of moral instruction, and I have seen the danger of the contrary.