On the recordJanuary 1, 1791
When this is lost, government is but a child in power; and though, like the old government in France, it may harass individuals for a while, it but facilitates its own fall.
Said by
Thomas Paine
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gutenberg.orgThomas Paine: “When this is lost, government is but a child in power; and though, like the old government in France, it may harass…”
Editor's note · Context
Paine warns that without the attachment of the people, a government becomes weak and ultimately contributes to its own downfall, even if it can temporarily oppress.
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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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In those which proceed from the former cause, the temper becomes incensed and soured; and the redress, obtained by danger, is too often sullied by revenge.
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.