Thomas Paine: “The soul of any man of sentiment would rise in brave rebellion against them, and spurn them from the earth.”

As to what are called national religions, we may, with as much propriety, talk of national Gods.

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.

It is only those who have not thought that appear to agree.

Discussion and the general will arbitrates the question, and to this, private opinion yields with a good grace, and order is preserved uninterrupted.