But when principle, and not place, is the energetic cause of action, a man, I find, is everywhere the same.
Thomas Paine: “But when principle, and not place, is the energetic cause of action, a man, I find, is everywhere the same.”
Editor's note · Context
Paine observes that individuals motivated by fundamental principles, rather than by ambition for position, maintain their integrity and character regardless of their circumstances.
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When men unite in agreeing that a thing is good, could it be obtained, such for instance as relief from a burden of taxes and the extinction of corruption, the object is more than half accomplished.
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?
Discussion and the general will arbitrates the question, and to this, private opinion yields with a good grace, and order is preserved uninterrupted.
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.