On the recordJanuary 1, 1791
It shows that man, were he not corrupted by governments, is naturally the friend of man, and that human nature is not of itself vicious.
Said by
Thomas Paine
Source
gutenberg.orgThomas Paine: “It shows that man, were he not corrupted by governments, is naturally the friend of man, and that human nature is not of…”
Editor's note · Context
From "Rights of Man," Paine posits that human nature is inherently good and that corruption stems from governmental systems, not individuals.
Share
More from Thomas Paine
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
I have no idea, considering the reforms which are now passing and spreading throughout Europe, that England will permit herself to be the last; and where the occasion and the opportunity quietly offer, it is better than to wait for a…
Jan 1, 1791
When men unite in agreeing that a thing is good, could it be obtained, such for instance as relief from a burden of taxes and the extinction of corruption, the object is more than half accomplished.
Jan 1, 1791
As to what are called national religions, we may, with as much propriety, talk of national Gods.