Political Quotes

Thomas Paine: With respect to the first of these heads, that of a Family establishing itself with hereditary powers on its own…

On the recordJanuary 1, 1791
With respect to the first of these heads, that of a Family establishing itself with hereditary powers on its own authority, and independent of the consent of a Nation, all men will concur in calling it despotism; and it would be trespassing on their understanding to attempt to prove it.
Said by
Thomas Paine

Editor's note · Context

In "Rights of Man," Paine asserts that a family establishing hereditary power without national consent is universally recognized as despotism.

Share

More from Thomas Paine

Jan 1, 1791

War is their trade, plunder and revenue their objects.

gutenberg.org
Jan 1, 1791

When it becomes necessary to do anything, the whole heart and soul should go into the measure, or not attempt it.

gutenberg.org
Jan 1, 1791

It was become evident, that no constitution, worthy of being called by that name, could be established on anything less than a national ground.

gutenberg.org
Jan 1, 1791

To account for this sudden transition, it is proper to observe that there are two distinct species of popularity; the one excited by merit, and the other by resentment.

gutenberg.org