When it is in a constitution, it has the nation for its support, and the natural and the political controlling powers are together.
Thomas Paine: “When it is in a constitution, it has the nation for its support, and the natural and the political controlling powers…”
Editor's note · Context
Paine argues that when controlling power resides in a constitution, it is supported by the nation, uniting natural and political authority.
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I do not believe that any two men, on what are called doctrinal points, think alike who think at all.
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?
As to what are called national religions, we may, with as much propriety, talk of national Gods.
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.