On the record
To call three powers of the mind into action at once, in a manner that neither shall interrupt, and that each shall aid and vigorate the other, is a talent very rarely possessed.
Said by
Thomas Paine
Source
gutenberg.orgThomas Paine: “To call three powers of the mind into action at once, in a manner that neither shall interrupt, and that each shall aid…”
Editor's note · Context
Paine describes the rare talent of engaging multiple cognitive processes simultaneously without conflict, emphasizing the complexity of thought.
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Jan 1, 1791
I have carefully avoided to enlarge upon the subject, because I am inclined to believe that what is called the present ministry, wish to see contentions about religion kept up, to prevent the nation turning its attention to subjects of…
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Why may we not suppose, that the great Father of all is pleased with variety of devotion; and that the greatest offence we can act, is that by which we seek to torment and render each other miserable?
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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.
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But as religion is very improperly made a political machine, and the reality of it is thereby destroyed, I will conclude this work with stating in what light religion appears to me.