On the recordJanuary 1, 1791
Accustomed to kiss the aristocratical hand that hath purloined him from himself, he degenerates into a composition of art, and the genuine soul of nature forsakes him.
Said by
Thomas Paine
Source
gutenberg.orgThomas Paine: “Accustomed to kiss the aristocratical hand that hath purloined him from himself, he degenerates into a composition of…”
Editor's note · Context
Paine describes how individuals under aristocratic rule can lose their authentic selves by submitting to oppressive power.
Share
More from Thomas Paine
Jan 1, 1791
But the spirit of the nation was not to be overcome, and it was so fully sensible of the strong ground it had taken--that of withholding taxes--that it contented itself with keeping up a sort of quiet resistance, which effectually…
Jan 1, 1791
I know the value of moral instruction, and I have seen the danger of the contrary.
Jan 1, 1791
A knowledge of the practice was then joined to the theory; and all that was wanting to give it real existence was opportunity.
Jan 1, 1791
They form a common policy throughout Europe, detached and separate from the interest of Nations: and while they appear to quarrel, they agree to plunder.