According, to Paine, what is the difference between society and government?
Society is produced by our wants and government by wickedness. Society, promotes our happiness and encourages intercourse. Government on the other hand, restrains our vices and creates distinctions. In every state, society is a blessing but a government even in its best state is evil. Society is a patron and government a punisher.
What is the meaning of "liberty" and "equality" in Paine's thought?
Liberty means the state of being free within society. Living free from the cruel limitations imposed by authority. Having the freedom to express their own political views. Equality to him, was the state of being equal in positions. Having equal rights, positions and opportunities.
3. What is the relationship between "liberty and equality"?
Liberty and equality are interconnected. They should strive try to establish equal rights for everyone. Without equality liberty is absurd. Too much of liberty has resulted in inequality. Value of equality cannot be felt it there is no liberty.
4. According to Paine, why is there a need for regulations and government in general?
When colonies increase, people’s concerns would also increase. People may settle far away from each other. They cannot meet often to contribute to pass laws to maintain order. So they would find it convenient to leave the governing matters to elect representatives. Also regulations and government are needed to provide happiness for the governed.
5. Why does Paine consider the English monarchy to be ineffective?
The tyrannical nature of the king contributed to futility of the English monarchy. The thirst for absolute power was found in the English monarchy, especially the King. The Peers indulged in Aristocratical tyranny. These two, being hereditary, did not support the freedom of the State. The British Monarchy also detached itself from the World that it was supposed to govern.
6. What does Paine think that America will gain by separating from England?
America would flourish greatly by severing ties with England. Americans would be free from fighting to establish sovereignty of the British Crown. They will maintain peaceful coexistence with their neighbors. They will be free to trade with any country of their choice. Their earnings will be their own.
7. List the reasons why Paine thinks independence is necessary.
Independence is needed as Britain and America can never reconcile. A government of America has become its right. Too many damages have been inflicted upon the Americans in the past. England is considered to be the most hellish and barbaric power, from which America has to extract itself.
8. What is the "most powerful of all augments" for independence?
The present continental form of government can offer peace for its citizens. If independence is not claimed now, it may lead to civil wars or revolts later. The infant state of the Colonies called for immediate action to claim independence. The lesser their number, would make them stay united in their fight against British Imperialism. It was historically proved that independence was better claimed before the forming of a nation. Increase in trade and population would result in confusion later.
9. For Paine, what is the relationship between law and liberty?
Laws should be made to ensure liberty to citizens. Citizens should be liberated enough to frame their own laws. Liberation from bondage should be the prime focus of law. Laws should guarantee liberty from wars. Laws should also grant liberty of property. Laws should endeavor to break all bondages of citizens and fight for their rights.
10. How does Paine answer the question, "Where is the king of America"?
Paine says that ‘the King of America’ reigns from above. And unlike the King of Britain, He does not make a mess of humanity. The Law is the king of America. In absolute governments King is law, so in free countries Law has to be declared King. There has to be no other.
11. What do you learn from reading this assignment? (Your opinion is required, yes!)
