On the recordJanuary 1, 1791
From such beginning of governments, what could be expected but a continued system of war and extortion?
Said by
Thomas Paine
Source
gutenberg.orgFrom such beginning of governments, what could be expected but a continued system of war and extortion?
In "Rights of Man," Paine concludes that governments originating from violence and usurpation are inherently predisposed to perpetual conflict and exploitation.
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I do not believe that any two men, on what are called doctrinal points, think alike who think at all.
Discussion and the general will arbitrates the question, and to this, private opinion yields with a good grace, and order is preserved uninterrupted.
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?