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El sentido común
El sentido común, ensayo escrito por el filósofo inglés y padre fundador de los Estados Unidos Thomas Paine, se publicó por primera vez en enero de 1776, durante la Revolución americana. La obra, una fuerte argumentación contra el dominio británico en un momento en que la cuestión independentista provocaba indecisiones en gran parte de los colonos, ejerció gran influencia sobre la opinión pública en los años de la guerra e inspiró profundamente los ideales de la Declaración de Independencia ratificada unos meses más tarde. Paine renunció al lenguaje filosófico y al latín, muy utilizados por los escritores de la Ilustración, para redactar su libro en un estilo sencillo que toda la gente pudiera entender.
El historiador Gordon S. Wood describió El sentido común como «el panfleto más incendiario y popular publicado durante la etapa revolucionaria».
La obra —muy actual por su carácter moral y social—, presentada en un primer momento anónimamente, constituyó un éxito editorial sin precedentes en América y logró vender más de 120 000 ejemplares en los tres meses siguientes a su aparición.
El historiador Gordon S. Wood describió El sentido común como «el panfleto más incendiario y popular publicado durante la etapa revolucionaria».
La obra —muy actual por su carácter moral y social—, presentada en un primer momento anónimamente, constituyó un éxito editorial sin precedentes en América y logró vender más de 120 000 ejemplares en los tres meses siguientes a su aparición.
144 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1776
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About the author
Thomas Paine
1,470 books1,825 followersThomas Paine was an English-American political activist, author, political theorist and revolutionary. As the author of two highly influential pamphlets at the start of the American Revolution, he inspired the Patriots in 1776 to declare independence from Britain. His ideas reflected Enlightenment-era rhetoric of transnational human rights. He has been called "a corset maker by trade, a journalist by profession, and a propagandist by inclination".
Born in Thetford, England, in the county of Norfolk, Paine emigrated to the British American colonies in 1774 with the help of Benjamin Franklin, arriving just in time to participate in the American Revolution. His principal contributions were the powerful, widely read pamphlet Common Sense (1776), the all-time best-selling American book that advocated colonial America's independence from the Kingdom of Great Britain, and The American Crisis (1776–83), a pro-revolutionary pamphlet series. Common Sense was so influential that John Adams said, "Without the pen of the author of Common Sense, the sword of Washington would have been raised in vain."
Paine lived in France for most of the 1790s, becoming deeply involved in the French Revolution. He wrote the Rights of Man (1791), in part a defence of the French Revolution against its critics. His attacks on British writer Edmund Burke led to a trial and conviction in absentia in 1792 for the crime of seditious libel. In 1792, despite not being able to speak French, he was elected to the French National Convention. The Girondists regarded him as an ally. Consequently, the Montagnards, especially Robespierre, regarded him as an enemy.
In December 1793, he was arrested and imprisoned in Paris, then released in 1794. He became notorious because of his pamphlet The Age of Reason (1793–94), in which he advocated deism, promoted reason and freethinking, and argued against institutionalized religion in general and Christian doctrine in particular. He also wrote the pamphlet Agrarian Justice (1795), discussing the origins of property, and introduced the concept of a guaranteed minimum income. In 1802, he returned to America where he died on June 8, 1809. Only six people attended his funeral as he had been ostracized for his ridicule of Christianity.
Born in Thetford, England, in the county of Norfolk, Paine emigrated to the British American colonies in 1774 with the help of Benjamin Franklin, arriving just in time to participate in the American Revolution. His principal contributions were the powerful, widely read pamphlet Common Sense (1776), the all-time best-selling American book that advocated colonial America's independence from the Kingdom of Great Britain, and The American Crisis (1776–83), a pro-revolutionary pamphlet series. Common Sense was so influential that John Adams said, "Without the pen of the author of Common Sense, the sword of Washington would have been raised in vain."
Paine lived in France for most of the 1790s, becoming deeply involved in the French Revolution. He wrote the Rights of Man (1791), in part a defence of the French Revolution against its critics. His attacks on British writer Edmund Burke led to a trial and conviction in absentia in 1792 for the crime of seditious libel. In 1792, despite not being able to speak French, he was elected to the French National Convention. The Girondists regarded him as an ally. Consequently, the Montagnards, especially Robespierre, regarded him as an enemy.
In December 1793, he was arrested and imprisoned in Paris, then released in 1794. He became notorious because of his pamphlet The Age of Reason (1793–94), in which he advocated deism, promoted reason and freethinking, and argued against institutionalized religion in general and Christian doctrine in particular. He also wrote the pamphlet Agrarian Justice (1795), discussing the origins of property, and introduced the concept of a guaranteed minimum income. In 1802, he returned to America where he died on June 8, 1809. Only six people attended his funeral as he had been ostracized for his ridicule of Christianity.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
December 10, 2016
"THESE ARE THE TIMES that try men's souls."
Overall 4 out of 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ for Common Sense and Other Writings by Thomas Paine. This collection of Paine's major works includes: African Slavery in America, Common Sense, The American Crisis Papers, Rights of Man, The Age of Reason, Agrarian Justice, and Letters to the Citizens of the United States of America
African Slavery in America was decent but it was too short and there wasn't a lot of "meat on the bones", so I'd give it 3 stars. The issue of slavery was heavily debated in America before and during the Revolution, but it was ultimately decided by the Founders that it was too much of a hot button issue and they kicked the can down the road. Paine was a staunch abolitionist.
Common Sense is awesome and I'd give it 10 stars if I could. It was a powerful political pamphlet published right near the beginning of the American Revolution and I believe it should be required reading for all Americans. In Common Sense, Paine took Americans from simply arguing taxes to why they should make a complete separation from Great Britain. It is very well written, and I have read that Washington had it read to his troops after it was published to get them fired up for their cause.
The American Crisis Papers were published throughout the Revolution and again were powerfully written and Paine provided sound reasoning throughout his Papers for America's break with Great Britain. Common Sense and the Crisis Papers were THE political pamphlets that folks in America were reading during the Revolution. I have read a lot of Revolutionary biographies and Thomas Paine's publications are mentioned in every one of them because they were so controversial at the time.
In Rights of Man Paine gets into literary criticism by lambasting a book by Edmund Burke that had condemned the French Revolution. Paine rips Burke's work to shreds and he really gets personal and downright nasty in his critique of Burke. Paine was not shy and he didn't hold back - I knew right where he was coming from at the beginning of Rights of Man. Paine argued how the English Monarchy was already past its prime, and he discusses the "natural rights of man" vs the "civil rights of man". It is some good stuff, although it does get bogged down with too much detail of tax plans, etc.
The Age of Reason is Paine's personal reflections on religion and theology. He was a Deist which was very popular in the late 18th century, and he goes into how he believes Christianity is basically a big load of crap. Age of Reason was the most personal out of the works in this collection and it was interesting to read what Paine believed in because it puts his political writings into perspective.
Agrarian Justice is Paine's attempt to propose a plan to end poverty through a tax plan to spread wealth to everyone. Paine was a social liberal but he advocated smaller, less constrictive government like Thomas Jefferson did.
Letters to the Citizens of the United States of America were done later in Paine's life after he returned to America after being imprisoned in France during its Revolution. He was basically saved by James Monroe who was minister to France at that time and he lobbied the French to allow Paine to come back with him to America. In Letters, Paine aligns himself inseparably with the Jeffersonians and he dogs out President John Adams' administration, The Federalists, and the passing of the Alien and Sedition Acts.
Thomas Paine loved America and you can tell his passion for it throughout his writing career, the highlights of which are all included in this collection, I enjoyed this much more than I thought I would. Paine was a wonderful writer and while I didn't personally agree with all of his arguments, it is still very interesting to read all of this. All the mentions of Paine in the Revolutionary bios and history books I've read about the period finally have a solid background for me and I am glad I read this collection. Now I need to read the Federalist Papers which I believe will be quite the opposite of Paine's belief in a "less is more" government style.
Highly Recommended!
Overall 4 out of 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ for Common Sense and Other Writings by Thomas Paine. This collection of Paine's major works includes: African Slavery in America, Common Sense, The American Crisis Papers, Rights of Man, The Age of Reason, Agrarian Justice, and Letters to the Citizens of the United States of America
African Slavery in America was decent but it was too short and there wasn't a lot of "meat on the bones", so I'd give it 3 stars. The issue of slavery was heavily debated in America before and during the Revolution, but it was ultimately decided by the Founders that it was too much of a hot button issue and they kicked the can down the road. Paine was a staunch abolitionist.
Common Sense is awesome and I'd give it 10 stars if I could. It was a powerful political pamphlet published right near the beginning of the American Revolution and I believe it should be required reading for all Americans. In Common Sense, Paine took Americans from simply arguing taxes to why they should make a complete separation from Great Britain. It is very well written, and I have read that Washington had it read to his troops after it was published to get them fired up for their cause.
The American Crisis Papers were published throughout the Revolution and again were powerfully written and Paine provided sound reasoning throughout his Papers for America's break with Great Britain. Common Sense and the Crisis Papers were THE political pamphlets that folks in America were reading during the Revolution. I have read a lot of Revolutionary biographies and Thomas Paine's publications are mentioned in every one of them because they were so controversial at the time.
In Rights of Man Paine gets into literary criticism by lambasting a book by Edmund Burke that had condemned the French Revolution. Paine rips Burke's work to shreds and he really gets personal and downright nasty in his critique of Burke. Paine was not shy and he didn't hold back - I knew right where he was coming from at the beginning of Rights of Man. Paine argued how the English Monarchy was already past its prime, and he discusses the "natural rights of man" vs the "civil rights of man". It is some good stuff, although it does get bogged down with too much detail of tax plans, etc.
The Age of Reason is Paine's personal reflections on religion and theology. He was a Deist which was very popular in the late 18th century, and he goes into how he believes Christianity is basically a big load of crap. Age of Reason was the most personal out of the works in this collection and it was interesting to read what Paine believed in because it puts his political writings into perspective.
Agrarian Justice is Paine's attempt to propose a plan to end poverty through a tax plan to spread wealth to everyone. Paine was a social liberal but he advocated smaller, less constrictive government like Thomas Jefferson did.
Letters to the Citizens of the United States of America were done later in Paine's life after he returned to America after being imprisoned in France during its Revolution. He was basically saved by James Monroe who was minister to France at that time and he lobbied the French to allow Paine to come back with him to America. In Letters, Paine aligns himself inseparably with the Jeffersonians and he dogs out President John Adams' administration, The Federalists, and the passing of the Alien and Sedition Acts.
Thomas Paine loved America and you can tell his passion for it throughout his writing career, the highlights of which are all included in this collection, I enjoyed this much more than I thought I would. Paine was a wonderful writer and while I didn't personally agree with all of his arguments, it is still very interesting to read all of this. All the mentions of Paine in the Revolutionary bios and history books I've read about the period finally have a solid background for me and I am glad I read this collection. Now I need to read the Federalist Papers which I believe will be quite the opposite of Paine's belief in a "less is more" government style.
Highly Recommended!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 27, 2011
I've only read the first three papers (African Slavery in America, Common Sense and The American Crises Papers 1,10 & 13) so far and even 200+ years later it is stirring; one can only imagine how reading (or having it read to you in a public) these inflammatory writings at the time could incite the imagination of a new world and galvanize the will of our fledging patriots.
Although Paine and his famous rhetoric were taught, I don't recall these as mandatory reading during my HS days (over 20 yrs ago); I can only wonder if suceeding generations will even know who Paine was and his influence on the birth of our nation in particular and modern democracy as a whole.
I'll update this review when I revisit and finish the book in the future.
Although Paine and his famous rhetoric were taught, I don't recall these as mandatory reading during my HS days (over 20 yrs ago); I can only wonder if suceeding generations will even know who Paine was and his influence on the birth of our nation in particular and modern democracy as a whole.
I'll update this review when I revisit and finish the book in the future.
February 11, 2008
One-line synopsis from the Age of Reason: The more unnatural anything is, the more is it capable of becoming the object of dismal admiration.
Paine was, of course, denouncing those savage Abrahamic religions: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Languages change and people (copyeditors, for example) are fallible; therefore, the immutable Word of God cannot be found in any book. Besides, the Torah, Bible, and Koran are tawdry books; they are a history of only the grossest vices and a collection of the most paltry and contemptible tales. To say these books compose the Word of God dishonors the Creator—the Flying Spaghetti Monster.
Paine was, of course, denouncing those savage Abrahamic religions: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Languages change and people (copyeditors, for example) are fallible; therefore, the immutable Word of God cannot be found in any book. Besides, the Torah, Bible, and Koran are tawdry books; they are a history of only the grossest vices and a collection of the most paltry and contemptible tales. To say these books compose the Word of God dishonors the Creator—the Flying Spaghetti Monster.
June 11, 2011
This collection of Thomas Paine writings is too complete. Some of the included texts, such as Common Sense, are good reads in that they are still relevant to the modern reader. They can tell us where we have been and can make us question our modern view of the proper role of government. If those had been the only texts included, this would have been a fine collection. Unfortunately, the texts that ramble about how much people should be taxed were dull and meaningless in the twenty-first century, and Payne was naive in some of his assumptions, such as population sizes and currency values remaining constant.
August 14, 2010
The only thing I can say about this book is that at the time, it was probably quite remarkable. It's a relic of the past, I suppose. Now, it just sounds like someone railing against the necessity of slavery - that argument has long since been fought and won.
April 7, 2020
Joelle Reads Her Bookcase #12
My favorite selection was Rights of Man Part I.
My favorite selection was Rights of Man Part I.
July 27, 2023
Common Sense is a significant document to understand the common man's thinking around the time of the founding of America. (A bit concerning that the simple appeal of this work would be a bit beyond the common man of today.) It gives some key insights into the debates that were being had as people were considering division from Britain and the ideal structure of government. I think many of these early writings should be essential reads to help understand and formulate a proper patriotism... that ideal government and ideal society will always be a work in progress and that we are not exceptional for no reason and do, in fact, need to consistently evolve. These works are technically a display of radical thought and Paine is a bit of a narcissist and an idealist, but one can't deny the passion of thought brought forward in this voice given to the people. Many of his ideals are funded by an optimism for human goodness that is, unfortunately, off the mark. I actually found Rights of Man to be the highlight here.
June 6, 2012
This book was a collection of writings by Thomas Paine (an early supporter of the American quest for independence), I loved the background story to Paine's experience & writings. The portion of the book I'm choosing to focus this review on is his writing called Common Sense, a paper on why Paine thinks America should be free from the grips of England. I found his arguments both persuasive and uncomfortable at times. I can definitely see why it wasn't very well received by the Crown. There are a number of quotes I found to be relevant & interesting, I thought I'd share some of my favorites.
Page 38: "Small islands not capable of protecting themselves are proper objects for government to take under their care; but there is some thing absurd, in supposing a Continent to be perpetually governed by an island."
Page 54: "The more men have to lose, the less willing are they to venture. The rich are in general slaves to fear, and submit to courtly power with the trembling of duplicity of a spaniel."
Page 54: "Most nations have let slip the opportunity, and by that means have been compelled to receive laws from their conquerors, instead of making laws for themselves."
~ What a thrilling time it must have been in to create, from scratch, what you wanted to become.
Page 55: "As to religion, I hold it to be the indispensable duty of government to protect all conscientious professors thereof, and I know of no other business which government hath to do therewith...For myself, I fully and conscientiously believe, that it is the will of the Almighty that there should be a diversity of religious opinions among us. It affords a larger field for our Christian kindness; were we all of one way of thinking, our religious dispositions would want matter for probation; and on this liberal principle I look on the various denominations among us, to be like children of the same family, differing only in what is called their Christian names."
~ I really respect this view on religion, I wish more people had this sort of tolerance for religion & religious views.
Page 64: "Wherefore, instead of gazing at each other with suspicious or doubtful curiosity, let each of us, hold out to his neighbor the hearty hand of friendship, and unite in drawing a line, which like an act of oblivion, shall bury in forgetfulness every former dissension. Let the names of Whig and Tory [and I suggest Democrat & Republican] be extinct; and let none other be heard among us, than those of a good citizen, and open and resolute friend, and a virtuous supporter of the RIGHTS of MANKIND and of the FREE AND INDEPENDENT STATES OF AMERICA."
~ What a perspective on diversity & tolerance of different political views! Sometimes I feel like say this to people to get stuck in the rut of their political close mindedness, myself included at times.
In all, I found Paine to be a refreshing reminder of America's potential. Have we become what he hoped? Have we taken advantage of the possibilities set before us? Are we now at risk of having given too much power and authority to our President that Monarchial tendencies are starting to show itself? Common Sense and the other writings of Thomas Paine is an excellent book to remind America where we've come from & what our potential could still become.
Page 38: "Small islands not capable of protecting themselves are proper objects for government to take under their care; but there is some thing absurd, in supposing a Continent to be perpetually governed by an island."
Page 54: "The more men have to lose, the less willing are they to venture. The rich are in general slaves to fear, and submit to courtly power with the trembling of duplicity of a spaniel."
Page 54: "Most nations have let slip the opportunity, and by that means have been compelled to receive laws from their conquerors, instead of making laws for themselves."
~ What a thrilling time it must have been in to create, from scratch, what you wanted to become.
Page 55: "As to religion, I hold it to be the indispensable duty of government to protect all conscientious professors thereof, and I know of no other business which government hath to do therewith...For myself, I fully and conscientiously believe, that it is the will of the Almighty that there should be a diversity of religious opinions among us. It affords a larger field for our Christian kindness; were we all of one way of thinking, our religious dispositions would want matter for probation; and on this liberal principle I look on the various denominations among us, to be like children of the same family, differing only in what is called their Christian names."
~ I really respect this view on religion, I wish more people had this sort of tolerance for religion & religious views.
Page 64: "Wherefore, instead of gazing at each other with suspicious or doubtful curiosity, let each of us, hold out to his neighbor the hearty hand of friendship, and unite in drawing a line, which like an act of oblivion, shall bury in forgetfulness every former dissension. Let the names of Whig and Tory [and I suggest Democrat & Republican] be extinct; and let none other be heard among us, than those of a good citizen, and open and resolute friend, and a virtuous supporter of the RIGHTS of MANKIND and of the FREE AND INDEPENDENT STATES OF AMERICA."
~ What a perspective on diversity & tolerance of different political views! Sometimes I feel like say this to people to get stuck in the rut of their political close mindedness, myself included at times.
In all, I found Paine to be a refreshing reminder of America's potential. Have we become what he hoped? Have we taken advantage of the possibilities set before us? Are we now at risk of having given too much power and authority to our President that Monarchial tendencies are starting to show itself? Common Sense and the other writings of Thomas Paine is an excellent book to remind America where we've come from & what our potential could still become.
July 19, 2017
The namesake of this collection of Paine's writings is a wonderful piece of persuasive writing that manages to effectively cut through the intimidating and sometimes baffling perceptions of government. In "Common Sense" Paine builds his philosophy from the ground up, explaining the differences between society and government and the uses of both. It is a wittily written and extremely educated piece that deserves its status as a classic.
Mileage varies for the other pieces in the collection. "The American Crisis Papers" echoes the same sentiments as "Common Sense" but with the added stigma of being a historical record from the era of the Revolutionary War.
I personally found "The Age of Reason" (essentially "Common Sense" for the French Revolution) to be a confusing and largely uninteresting slog. Largely a response to Edmond Burke's criticisms of the French Revolution, the piece often-times feels petty, and what pertinent or profound points it does make are hidden behind that pettiness as well as a rhetoric much more difficult to approach or understand.
"The Age of Reason", the piece which famously lost the author most of his old friendships, is every bit as incendiary today as in its own time. Though hyper-critical of religious organizations (most especially Christianity), Paine still imbues the work with a Deist philosophy that acknowledges the great uses for faith and, above all, kindness to others. If the take-downs of specific dogmas and doctrines unwelcome challenge readers' religious convictions, the piece is still rife with optimism.
While the quality of the many essays and letters varies, this is a very well put-together collection of some of the most approachable and applicable philosophy I've ever read.
Mileage varies for the other pieces in the collection. "The American Crisis Papers" echoes the same sentiments as "Common Sense" but with the added stigma of being a historical record from the era of the Revolutionary War.
I personally found "The Age of Reason" (essentially "Common Sense" for the French Revolution) to be a confusing and largely uninteresting slog. Largely a response to Edmond Burke's criticisms of the French Revolution, the piece often-times feels petty, and what pertinent or profound points it does make are hidden behind that pettiness as well as a rhetoric much more difficult to approach or understand.
"The Age of Reason", the piece which famously lost the author most of his old friendships, is every bit as incendiary today as in its own time. Though hyper-critical of religious organizations (most especially Christianity), Paine still imbues the work with a Deist philosophy that acknowledges the great uses for faith and, above all, kindness to others. If the take-downs of specific dogmas and doctrines unwelcome challenge readers' religious convictions, the piece is still rife with optimism.
While the quality of the many essays and letters varies, this is a very well put-together collection of some of the most approachable and applicable philosophy I've ever read.
February 21, 2022
Lo escuché en audiolibro y no sabía qué me iba a encontrar, no me esperaba mucho la verdad, y ha resultado ser una muy interesante y nutritiva lectura. Aun siendo del siglo XVIII se hace una crítica política actual. No tiene desperdicio.
October 22, 2024
Buena reflexión y explicación sobre las relaciones de poder. Sin embargo, se llega a hacer bastante pesado. No está mal.
Abrazo.
Abrazo.
July 4, 2023
“History is to ascribe the American Revolution to Thomas Paine”-John Adams
June 5, 2013
Although Thomas Paine has a penchant for propaganda, I was still intrigued to read the major works of this man, whom John Adams considered the one who started the American Revolution. Our country's history aside, however, I found the most fascinating section of the entire book to be 'The Age of Reason', Paine's scathing attack against Christianity and other "false religions." It is amazing that a man who so sincerely wanted to honor His Creator was so sincerely wrong about His knowledge of that Creator!
'The Age of Reason' definitely gave me more insight into the beliefs of the deists. Until reading it, I don't think I fully grasped just how antagonistic deism is toward the essential elements of Christianity. For example, Paine adamantly believed that what Christianity calls 'general revelation' was the only true 'word of God'. He rejected the Bible as a "stupid" book (his word, not mine!). Paine's work is also one of the clearest examples I have ever read of how foolish the cross seems to unbelievers (1 Cor. 2).
Regarding this particular edition, I wish the editors had included footnotes that provided a historical context for each of Paine's writings.The works included in the book were Paine's responses to specific events, speeches, or documents. It would have been helpful to have that context so that I could make a more informed judgment about whether Paine was effectively arguing his own view while also accurately representing the views of others.
'The Age of Reason' definitely gave me more insight into the beliefs of the deists. Until reading it, I don't think I fully grasped just how antagonistic deism is toward the essential elements of Christianity. For example, Paine adamantly believed that what Christianity calls 'general revelation' was the only true 'word of God'. He rejected the Bible as a "stupid" book (his word, not mine!). Paine's work is also one of the clearest examples I have ever read of how foolish the cross seems to unbelievers (1 Cor. 2).
Regarding this particular edition, I wish the editors had included footnotes that provided a historical context for each of Paine's writings.The works included in the book were Paine's responses to specific events, speeches, or documents. It would have been helpful to have that context so that I could make a more informed judgment about whether Paine was effectively arguing his own view while also accurately representing the views of others.
July 6, 2014
A difficult book to read. And not all of the ideas got into my head. For example, the endnotes mentions Paine's hatred of George Washington, yet I couldn't encounter that in the book. I could only encounter his dislike of John Adams.
That said, some of the ideas in the book are intriguing. For example, how a constitution was a new instrument; Kingdoms never had such a thing-all governance was hereditary. And the constitution was what limited executive power. Additionally I had never thought of taxes and war as friends to a hereditary government, and things a democracy keeps to a minimum.
I also learned that John Adams (I think) wanted to create the Presidency in the manner of a king, with more power, and the balance of power between the branches was not initially added (only to the development of the constitution).
Perhaps these ideas are elementary in High School history, but ones I haven't heard of, or have simply forgot.
Finally, Paine's attitude towards religions seems sort of like Bill Maher's today, denouncing the bible. He has to be the first historical figure I have heard of who rejected the Judeo-Christian traditions.
This was a obtuse, difficult to read book, but I have learned a lot and am grateful to have read it.
That said, some of the ideas in the book are intriguing. For example, how a constitution was a new instrument; Kingdoms never had such a thing-all governance was hereditary. And the constitution was what limited executive power. Additionally I had never thought of taxes and war as friends to a hereditary government, and things a democracy keeps to a minimum.
I also learned that John Adams (I think) wanted to create the Presidency in the manner of a king, with more power, and the balance of power between the branches was not initially added (only to the development of the constitution).
Perhaps these ideas are elementary in High School history, but ones I haven't heard of, or have simply forgot.
Finally, Paine's attitude towards religions seems sort of like Bill Maher's today, denouncing the bible. He has to be the first historical figure I have heard of who rejected the Judeo-Christian traditions.
This was a obtuse, difficult to read book, but I have learned a lot and am grateful to have read it.
February 18, 2022
A pamphlet written by Thomas Paine in 1775–1776 advocating independence from Great Britain to people in the Thirteen Colonies. Writing in clear and persuasive prose, Paine marshaled moral and political arguments to encourage common people in the Colonies to fight for egalitarian government. It was published anonymously on January 10, 1776, at the beginning of the American Revolution and became an immediate sensation.
It was sold and distributed widely and read aloud at taverns and meeting places. In proportion to the population of the colonies at that time (2.5 million), it had the largest sale and circulation of any book published in American history.
Common Sense made public a persuasive and impassioned case for independence, which had not yet been given serious intellectual consideration. Paine connected independence with common dissenting Protestant beliefs as a means to present a distinctly American political identity and structured Common Sense as if it were a sermon. Historian Gordon S. Wood described Common Sense as "the most incendiary and popular pamphlet of the entire revolutionary era."
It was sold and distributed widely and read aloud at taverns and meeting places. In proportion to the population of the colonies at that time (2.5 million), it had the largest sale and circulation of any book published in American history.
Common Sense made public a persuasive and impassioned case for independence, which had not yet been given serious intellectual consideration. Paine connected independence with common dissenting Protestant beliefs as a means to present a distinctly American political identity and structured Common Sense as if it were a sermon. Historian Gordon S. Wood described Common Sense as "the most incendiary and popular pamphlet of the entire revolutionary era."
August 18, 2007
Thomas Paine's writings are as prevalent today as they were back in the 18th century. To understand Thomas Paine, the Civil Rights movement, and equal liberties, one understands the Articles of Confederation, Constitution, The Bill of Rights and The Declaration of Independence.
Any Englishman who berates America's struggle has not had the piece of mind to understand Thomas Paine or Colonial America. An American who says "who cares about the bill of rights," has not had the piece of mind to understand Thomas Paine or Colonial America. Anyone who spits on American Freedoms or Independence has not had the piece of mind to understand Thomas Paine or Colonial America.
These are the founding principles of freedom, liberty, equality and advancement of a prosperous society. While some comments are dated, and shows Thomas Paine's century of birth, the book remains a testament to American Ideals, and it is only through understanding from whence we came can we progress further to the future utopia imagined in so many fantasy, science fiction, and prophetic creations of mankind.
Any Englishman who berates America's struggle has not had the piece of mind to understand Thomas Paine or Colonial America. An American who says "who cares about the bill of rights," has not had the piece of mind to understand Thomas Paine or Colonial America. Anyone who spits on American Freedoms or Independence has not had the piece of mind to understand Thomas Paine or Colonial America.
These are the founding principles of freedom, liberty, equality and advancement of a prosperous society. While some comments are dated, and shows Thomas Paine's century of birth, the book remains a testament to American Ideals, and it is only through understanding from whence we came can we progress further to the future utopia imagined in so many fantasy, science fiction, and prophetic creations of mankind.
March 3, 2013
Excellent collection of Paine's works, which are probably the best American-Revolution era political philosophy I've ever read, or at least aligns with my own thoughts more than any other "founding father". Well, it does until late in his life, when he apparently decides to deride John Adams in every article he writes. (when it comes to John Adams lovers, it's me, David McCullough, and Tom Hanks, and that's it. At least, it seems like that sometimes.) But other than that, Paine hits an important road between moderate real talk and idealistic hopes for the future. I ended up buying a complete collection of his "American Crisis" papers, written while he was a member of Washington's army. (This book only had a couple of those papers, but all those selected were great) Can't wait to read his thoughts from the front line.
June 30, 2011
Still relevant enough in today's time. Should be required reading for all the hacks that want to be voted into house and senate...and president for that matter. The american govt is becoming exactly what we broke away from in 1776. Common sense read in today's context illustrates that. The others are informative and enlightening. I enjoy how Paine matter of factly explains religion to us in rights of man. Paine's stance on slavery abolition nearly 100 years ahead of the civil war. Also some good comments on federalist govt versus states rights. "13 staves do not make a barrel without a ring." Paine I think had a good understanding of the balance check and control needed to go along with a central govt.
June 24, 2009
Most of the things in "Common Sense" are not directly related to our own lives, however the gold of Paine's writing today is how well he formulates his argument.
If you want to learn how to improve your writing skills, then I highly recommend pick up Thomas Paine and thumbing through.
With all that said, from a historical point of view, "Common Sense" is, understandably, very valuable. It's also pretty interesting, so check it out. It's not very long, about 52 pages, and "The Rights of Man" is supposed to be even better.
If you want to learn how to improve your writing skills, then I highly recommend pick up Thomas Paine and thumbing through.
With all that said, from a historical point of view, "Common Sense" is, understandably, very valuable. It's also pretty interesting, so check it out. It's not very long, about 52 pages, and "The Rights of Man" is supposed to be even better.
August 20, 2009
I really enjoyed reading this book. I see why now the pamphlet was called Common Sense. The content makes so much sense; however, I do not think that is the best or most important writing in this version. That designation rests with The Rights of Man. I definitely feel that was Paine was getting across there is definitely relevant in today's political climate. I was also impressed with Agrarian Justice, for the time period, it was a revolutionary argument for modern day social security. I'm definitely glad I read this book and I highly recommend it to everyone.
April 18, 2012
Highly recommended to anyone who wants a diverse view of the American Revolution and the following years. This was a fascinating follow up to McCullough's Adams biography, especially since Paine and Adams came to be enemies. This includes "Agrarian Justice" and "Age of Reason", one of which essentially proposed the Social Security system, and the other which harshly denounces organized religion. Paine's works really fly in the face of any side claiming that the Founders as a whole had a single voice.
February 22, 2012
I really liked reading this book. Payne
Expressed very power and wise thoughts that sparked and embraced the believes of those
Who fought to give us the liberties that we enjoy today. This should be required reading in our High Schools today however that is very unlikely because those who run our government and make these Decisions do not possess or believe in the principles of of Common Sense.
Expressed very power and wise thoughts that sparked and embraced the believes of those
Who fought to give us the liberties that we enjoy today. This should be required reading in our High Schools today however that is very unlikely because those who run our government and make these Decisions do not possess or believe in the principles of of Common Sense.
May 21, 2013
So they don't exactly tell you in school that Paine wrote a pamphlet denouncing Christianity and that he managed to upset a lot of people with his directness against religion (Paine was a Deist). He wrote a lot after the Revolutionary War, including some letters against the Federalist faction during John Adams presidency, but all we ever hear is that he wrote Common Sense before US history decided that he faded away.
May 6, 2015
I picked this volume up at B&N a few years back for less than $10. It is an essential for all true patriots and students of history. The principles laid out in Paine's essays and pamphlets are unwavering and underpin the foundations of this nation. If we are to restore the power and prominence of America, here at home and abroad, we must first begin by restoring its principles in our own hearts and minds.
December 10, 2015
It is interesting to think that this book was a catalyst for the colonials to join the revolution. What is interesting about it is that in Common Sense Paine seems to frequently use the Holy Bible to support his call to independence. Then, only a short time later in The Age of Reason, he shoots down not only Christian beliefs, but Judaism and Muslim alike. It disappointed to think that perhaps he was just a politician.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 28, 2017
It's truly amazing that this one book had a huge significant impact on a fair percentage of the colonists. This book is a testament to the time period and certain things may be applicable to today's society. Paine's thoughts seem, well, like common sense and convey the views of many of his contemporaries of the time. The other writings are a little less interesting, but still informative and read worthy.
March 28, 2011
Thomas Paine is one of the most significant of the Founding Fathers for the United States of America. In fact, he is the one who coined the phrase "The United States of America." He is often paired alongside George Washington as the two most significant individuals in the American Revolution. Washington provided the action and Paine provided the reasoning.
August 2, 2012
I certainly expanded my vocabulary with his writings! I picked it up intending to read "common Sense" but continued on. This is really 5 books and while one may not agree with his views, his logic is certainly worth discussion. "Age of reason" I found particularly compelling. The overall theme I believe is that the individual has rights that should not be subverted by governments or religion.
April 13, 2015
If you do nothing else read the Age of Reason. The most perfectly reasoned argument for banishing religions from the universe and perhaps replacing it with pure deism. What we see is what we get from a God who lays it all out in front of us to see. The bible and all other written words become fraud pure and simple. It is a stunning revelation for all.
July 17, 2018
This should be required reading for High School Seniors - especially "Common Sense" and "The Rights of Man". Thomas Paine lays out the principles on which our nation was formed. He gets a little preachy and too detailed with actual tax amounts, but the every American needs to know the principles he presents.
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