Political Quotes

Thomas Paine: If the crimes of men were exhibited with their sufferings, stage effect would sometimes be lost, and the audience would…

On the recordJanuary 1, 1791
If the crimes of men were exhibited with their sufferings, stage effect would sometimes be lost, and the audience would be inclined to approve where it was intended they should commiserate.
Said by
Thomas Paine

Editor's note · Context

Paine observes that presenting the full context of human actions, including both crimes and sufferings, can alter audience perception and undermine intended emotional responses.

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