They are followed and obeyed, because it is the interest of the parties so to do, and not on account of any formal laws their governments may impose or interpose.
Thomas Paine: “They are followed and obeyed, because it is the interest of the parties so to do, and not on account of any formal laws…”
Editor's note · Context
In "Rights of Man," Paine contends that people obey the laws of trade and commerce due to mutual interest, not solely because of government mandates.
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As to what are called national religions, we may, with as much propriety, talk of national Gods.
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Discussion and the general will arbitrates the question, and to this, private opinion yields with a good grace, and order is preserved uninterrupted.