Political Quotes

Thomas Paine: “There is, moreover, a paradox in the idea of vitiated bodies reforming themselves.”

On the recordJanuary 1, 1791
There is, moreover, a paradox in the idea of vitiated bodies reforming themselves.
Said by
Thomas Paine

Editor's note · Context

In "Rights of Man," Paine critiques the notion that corrupt institutions can effectively reform themselves.

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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.

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

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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.

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Jan 1, 1791

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

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