If, from the more wretched parts of the old world, we look at those which are in an advanced stage of improvement we still find the greedy hand of government thrusting itself into every corner and crevice of industry, and grasping the spoil of the multitude.
From "Rights of Man," Paine criticizes governments for their pervasive interference and exploitation of the populace, even in seemingly prosperous regions.
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He writes neither in the character of a Frenchman nor an Englishman, but in the fawning character of that creature known in all countries, and a friend to none--a courtier.
The aristocracy has screened itself too much, and this serves to restore a part of the lost equilibrium.
It was become evident, that no constitution, worthy of being called by that name, could be established on anything less than a national ground.
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.