On the recordJanuary 1, 1791
Are not conquest and defeat each of the same price, and taxes the never-failing consequence?--Though this reasoning may be good to a nation, it is not so to a government.
Said by
Thomas Paine
Source
gutenberg.orgThomas Paine: “Are not conquest and defeat each of the same price, and taxes the never-failing consequence?--Though this reasoning may…”
Editor's note · Context
Paine argues that both victory and defeat in war ultimately result in taxes for the nation, benefiting governments more than the populace.
Share
More from Thomas Paine
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
I do not believe that any two men, on what are called doctrinal points, think alike who think at all.
Jan 1, 1791
In those which proceed from the former cause, the temper becomes incensed and soured; and the redress, obtained by danger, is too often sullied by revenge.
Jan 1, 1791
If, therefore, the good to be obtained be worthy of a passive, rational, and costless revolution, it would be bad policy to prefer waiting for a calamity that should force a violent one.