Themes in Common Sense

This is one of the more famous lines in the text and speaks to what Paine believes to be one of the fatal flaws of a monarchical government. By elevating a single man into a position of utmost power over others, monarchy fuels the pride of the king. This pride subsequently pushes the king to act in pursuit of his own best interests, rather than the best interests of his people.

It is worth noting that, given the historical context of this time, Paine likely was advocating for equality among white me; however his language is such that we can apply his assertions of equality to everyone. It is his firm belief that men are equal which fuels his strong opposition to kings, the monarchy, and that hierarchical structure.

The time to backtrack has passed, and the only way now is forward. There can be no hope for reconciliation, nor can there be just sympathy with British rule. This is Paine's final call to action.

A government of America's own is a natural right and is essential in preserving the safety and integrity of the American colonies. Paine crafts this argument to appeal to the reader's logos by explaining how his belief is the most sound course of action.

Here Paine once again maintains the idea of self-governance and the success that comes from distributing ruling power to the people rather than a single, monarchical leader.

Many colonists feared the seeming inevitability of civil wars, and here Paine addresses that concern while explaining that only an independent government, like the one he is advocating for, can prevent those wars. This marks a shift in Paine's rhetoric, too, wherein he has now transitioned to acknowledge the colonists' fears.

England's involvement with the American colonies is fueled entirely by self-interest, and subsequently they are not a sound governing body for the colonies. This argument undermines England's reasons for legitimate rule.

Paine uses this paragraph to invoke a cost-benefit question regarding the future of the revolution. Will the benefits outweigh the costs? Paine believes wholeheartedly that they will, and this statement subsequently sets up the next part of his discussion.

Here Paine makes a bold claim that the quiet, less dramatic resistances have not been successful, and this statement sets him up to expound on methods that could accomplish more. It is not quite a direct advocation of violence; rather, it is simply a call for action as that is the only true way to enact change.

Here Paine notes that the goal of a free America is not to seek out conflict, or exert authority over other countries, but rather to have a successful and prosperous economy made possible through the inclusive exchange of goods from countries throughout the world.

This represents an important point of clarification, in that Paine does not seek total isolationism in the new America. Instead he advocates a connection with all other like-minded European citizens, and a distinct pride in those connections.

Again, Paine highlights the separation of American interest and British ruling interest. He notes here that, though some claim the colonies are united solely through England, they are actually united through Great Britain's imposed "enemyship."

This is a critical quote to note because it highlights the deeply held belief that the cause of the revolution extends beyond the thirteen colonies. Paine's diction here helps to extend the importance of the pamphlet's argument.

This is Paine's rationale for his previous argument against a common concern for colonial supporters. He argues that the colonies exist in a perfect balance, wherein they are populous enough to defend themselves, but not so overrun that unity becomes problematic.

To fuel the potential success of a future naval force, Paine advocates for the production and service of merchant ships to be used in a more military way.

Paine further advocates for a degree of independence and self-sufficiency for the future of the new America. The colonists should not rely on a distanced military, run by another country, to protect themselves from outside threats. Paine appeals to their ability to protect themselves.

Paine advocates for a larger, and more powerful, defensive program within America. As the colonies have grown and prospered, so too must their military. While he does much to point out how ready America is for independence, he also includes such items to remind readers that there is still work to be done.

This is yet another reason that America is at an ideal point to separate from Britain: the country has a plethora of natural resources from which citizens may produce goods and arms.

Though their navy was not strong, all the ports and coastal towns made for an ideal foundation upon which to benefit from having a navy. These refrains from Paine are another rhetorical tactic through which he hopes to convince readers of his arguments.

America's independence from Britain is inevitable, according to Paine and all those with whom he has spoken. The purpose of this section is subsequently to explain how well equipped the colonies are for this inevitable separation.