Common Sense Book Summary By Thomas Paine

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Common Sense is more than just a book; it's a seminal work of political philosophy that shaped the American Revolution and continues to influence our lives today.

Written by Thomas Paine in 1776, the book is composed of a series of sections that discuss justice, democracy, common sense, revolution, and the establishment of a new government.

The first part explains why all forms of government must be subject to common sense and justice for its citizens; this includes details about taxation and representation.

The second section examines the logic behind revolution as an appropriate response to corruption or abuse from those in power.

Lastly, this compelling work concludes with an emphasis on the importance of establishing a new country – one founded on morality and fairness-based principles.

Common Sense

Book Name: Common Sense (The book that launched a revolution)

Author(s): Thomas Paine

Rating: 3.7/5

Reading Time: 8 Minutes

Categories: History

Author Bio

Thomas Paine was a political figure who had an immense influence on the United States.

Originally from England, he was sponsored by Benjamin Franklin to move to America in 1775 - two years before publishing his famous pamphlet, Common Sense.

This pamphlet was revolutionary for its time and has since become one of the most influential political works of all time.

Paine is considered one of the founding fathers of the United States and made important contributions to numerous other works such as The Rights of Man and The Age of Reason.

His legacy continues to have a significant impact in modern times.

How Thomas Paine’s Common Sense Pamphlet Revolutionized Society And Promoted The American Revolution

Thomas Paine's

In Thomas Paine’s pamphlet, Common Sense, he explains why representative government is the way to go in modern societies.

Specifically, as people’s functions and businesses grow more complex, they require a greater utilization of individuals to interpret the needs of a larger population.

Representation helps those in power understand issues and make decisions on behalf of the populace in ways that represent their interests.

Once England took control of America’s economy through taxation without representation, it was clear something had to change.

And so Paine argued for representation that changes as needed with population growth or shifts in interests.

He also looked at how this form of government could address any grievances presented by citizens and proposed certain ideas to fix economic disadvantages stemming from English control.

In short, Paine showed how representative government provides stability and balances the power between rulers and citizens, thereby making it common sense for society to use this form of governance.

The Need For Laws And Other People To Realize Our Potential

Potential

Humans need to live and work with each other for us to realize our full potential.

Common tasks like moving logs, building a house or plowing a field require team effort.

Even delicately precise surgical procedures require the assistance of multiple doctors.

But there is another reason why we rely on each other: for survival in difficult times.

For example, when we get sick, we depend on others to bring us food and medicine.

Without someone else’s help, it could mean the difference between life and death – think back to the 18th century where people would die due to dehydration from high fevers if no one brought them water.

This mutual dependence on each other drives humans to form societies that are governed by rules such as laws which help protect us against our selfish impulses of disregarding others’ interest for our own gain.

The idea that together we are stronger than when we are apart keeps us working together and brings forth helpful regulations essential for maintaining liberty, security and justice among everyone in society.

Representative Governance: An Egalitarian Solution To Society’S Most Pressing Problems

The best way to govern a large society, according to Thomas Paine in his book Common Sense, is through representative governance rather than monarchy.

Representative government keeps those who govern attuned to the issues that matter most to their constituents by holding frequent elections wherein people vote for those who share their views.

Monarchy completely contradicts the will of God by elevating a select few above others and having power lie within hereditary lines.

This basis of transferring power means that even if you get a good monarch, they may not pass on their good ruler qualities to heirs – instead, you might get an absolute lunatic as your ruler.

Moreover, being born into such power can be corrupting and drive an otherwise sane person mad.

Finally, looking at the American Revolution exemplifies the great inequality and corruption inherent in monarchy and the benefits brought about by representative government.

The American Revolution: The Fight For Independence From British Tyranny And Unfair Rule

American Revolution

It’s clear that America was not better off having England as its “mother country,” and it’s time for this to be addressed.

Through heavy taxation and lack of representation in the British Parliament, England has crippled America’s economy.

In addition to this, they have limited American ports from trading with other countries around the world, which has impinged on American freedom and prevented them from being able to take advantage of their resources and become a global trading hub.

Of course, no country should be able to lay claim to another and its people like England has done; this is why America should take it upon itself to declare independence from Britain.

Without British rule, Americans would have the autonomy they need to fully realize the potential for economic growth that comes with their vast resources.

This is why America will be better off without English influence and can finally become independent – a nation built on liberty and justice for all!

Wrap Up

Thomas Paine’s “Common Sense” is a powerful and persuasive book that highlights the need for American independence.

Paine argues that this independence is necessary in order to create a fair and representative government, one which makes frequent elections a priority.

Natural law, the will of God and the oppression of Britain all point to America owning itself and creating its own government, and it’s up to us do it.

This is the key message of Thomas Paine’s “Common Sense,” and I think it still rings true today.

Arturo Miller

Hi, I am Arturo Miller, the Chief Editor of this blog. I'm a passionate reader, learner and blogger. Motivated by the desire to help others reach their fullest potential, I draw from my own experiences and insights to curate blogs.

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