The true idea of a great nation is that, which extends and promotes the principles of universal society.
Thomas Paine: “The true idea of a great nation is that, which extends and promotes the principles of universal society.”
Editor's note · Context
Paine emphasizes the importance of a nation that promotes universal principles rather than local interests.
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I do not believe that any two men, on what are called doctrinal points, think alike who think at all.
As to what are called national religions, we may, with as much propriety, talk of national Gods.
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?
I have carefully avoided to enlarge upon the subject, because I am inclined to believe that what is called the present ministry, wish to see contentions about religion kept up, to prevent the nation turning its attention to subjects of…