Essays · Chapters

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Chapter companions for Essays by Thomas Paine.

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Chapter 1
Common Sense
Thomas Paine argues for American independence from British rule, critiquing monarchy and hereditary succession, and advocating for a representative government based on natural rights.
Chapter 2
Of the Origin and Design of Government in General, with Concise Remarks on the English Constitution
Paine distinguishes society from government, arguing that society arises from our wants and promotes happiness, while government is a necessary evil born from our wickedness. He traces the origin of government to a hypothetical small colony where natural liberty leads to society, then to representative government as the colony grows. He then critiques the English constitution as a complex, absurd mixture of monarchical and aristocratic tyrannies with republican elements, arguing that the Crown's power to give places and pensions makes it the overbearing part, and that the constitution's checks are ineffective.
Chapter 3
Of Monarchy and Hereditary Succession
Paine argues against monarchy and hereditary succession, asserting that all men are originally equal and that kingship is an unnatural and unjust institution. He uses biblical examples, such as Gideon and Samuel, to show divine disapproval of monarchy, and criticizes the hereditary system as a source of evil, war, and oppression. He traces the origin of kings to usurpation or election, not divine right, and condemns English monarchy as founded by William the Conqueror, a French bastard and usurper.
Chapter 4
Thoughts on the Present State of American Affairs
Paine argues that reconciliation with Britain is dangerous and that only independence can preserve peace and prevent civil war. He warns that a continued connection will lead to ruin, as the king will use his negative to suppress American prosperity. Paine proposes a plan for a continental government with annual assemblies, equal representation, and a rotating presidency, and calls for the immediate establishment of a constitution to avoid future tyranny.
Chapter 5
Of the Present Ability of America: With Some Miscellaneous Reflections
Paine argues that the time for American independence has arrived, emphasizing the continent's military strength, unity, and economic potential. He dismisses concerns about readiness, advocates for a continental charter and equal representation, and warns against delaying independence. He also discusses the advantages of a national debt and the necessity of forming a government from first principles.

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Common Sense

Of the Origin and Design of Government in General, with Concise Remarks on the English Constitution

Of Monarchy and Hereditary Succession

Thoughts on the Present State of American Affairs

Of the Present Ability of America: With Some Miscellaneous Reflections