Thomas Paine: “If a house of legislation is to be composed of men of one class, for the purpose of protecting a distinct interest, all…”

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.

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.

I do not believe that any two men, on what are called doctrinal points, think alike who think at all.

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.