On the recordJanuary 1, 1776
If we reason to the root of things we shall find no difference; neither can any just cause be assigned why we should punish in the one case and pardon in the other.
Said by
Thomas Paine
Source
gutenberg.orgThomas Paine: “If we reason to the root of things we shall find no difference; neither can any just cause be assigned why we should…”
Editor's note · Context
Paine advocates for a consistent application of justice, arguing that fundamental reasoning reveals no basis for differential treatment in similar cases.
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Jan 1, 1791
I presume, that though all the people of England pay taxes, not an hundredth part of them are electors, and the members of one of the houses of parliament represent nobody but themselves.
Jan 1, 1791
I do not believe that any two men, on what are called doctrinal points, think alike who think at all.
Jan 1, 1791
There is, therefore, no power but the voluntary will of the people that has a right to act in any matter respecting a general reform; and by the same right that two persons can confer on such a subject, a thousand may.