On the recordJanuary 1, 1791
It is impossible that such governments as have hitherto existed in the world, could have commenced by any other means than a total violation of every principle sacred and moral.
Said by
Thomas Paine
Source
gutenberg.orgThomas Paine: “It is impossible that such governments as have hitherto existed in the world, could have commenced by any other means…”
Editor's note · Context
In "Rights of Man," Paine asserts that the historical origins of existing governments were inherently immoral and violated fundamental principles.
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Jan 1, 1791
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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I do not believe that any two men, on what are called doctrinal points, think alike who think at all.
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As to what are called national religions, we may, with as much propriety, talk of national Gods.