REVIEW OF THE BOOK:

COMMON SENSE BY THOMAS PAINE

Submitted to:

Mr. Aashutosh Kumar Aahire

(Faculty, Political Science)

“Submitted by:

Anirudh Dewangan

(Semester 4, Section A, Roll No. 19)

HIDAYATULLAH NATIONAL LAW UNIVERSITY

Uparwara Post, Opp. Jungle Safari,

Atal Nagar, District Raipur

Chhattisgarh, 492002”
Introduction – Thomas Paine

Thomas Paine (1737-1809) was an influential writer and a political activist who actually
played a pivotal role in the American Revolution and the French Revolution. Born in
England, Paine immigrated to the American colonies in 1774, where he quickly became a
prominent figure in the independence movement. He is best known for his powerful and
persuasive writings, including the pamphlet “Common Sense,” which argued for the necessity
of American independence from British rule. Paine's ideas and advocacy for democratic
principles and individual rights had a profound impact on the development of modern
political philosophy and remain relevant today.

Review – Common Sense

“I’ve been reading Common Sense by Thomas Paine

So men say that I’m intense or I’m insane

You want a revolution? I want a revelation!

So listen to my declaration:

We hold these truths to be self-evident

that all men are created equal,

And when I meet Thomas Jefferson

Imma compel him to include women in the sequel!

Work!”

I picked the line from the famous musical Hamilton, which itself shows the magnification
and the scope of this book and the influence of Thomas Paine in the American culture.
The Structure and The Basis

The basis of the book is the idea that it is common sense for the American colonies to
break away from Great Britain and establish an independent nation. Paine argues that the
British government is corrupt, oppressive, and unworthy of the loyalty of the American
people. He calls for a new system of government based on the principles of democracy and
equality, with power derived from the people rather than from a hereditary monarchy.

The structure of Common Sense is divided into four parts.

 In the first part, Paine lays out his argument for why the colonies should seek
independence from Britain. He argues that the colonies have outgrown the need for
British protection and that it is in their best interests to form their own government.
He also criticizes the idea of a hereditary monarchy and argues that government
should be based on the consent of the governed.
 In the second part, Paine discusses the nature of government and the proper role of
government in society. He argues that government exists to protect the rights and
interests of the people and that it should be limited in its powers to prevent tyranny.
 In the third part, Paine criticizes the British monarchy and argues that it is inherently
corrupt and oppressive. He also criticizes the British system of government and calls
for a new system based on the principles of democracy and equality.
 In the final part, Paine makes a call to action, urging the American people to take up
arms and fight for their independence. He argues that the time has come for the
colonies to break away from Britain and establish their own government based on the
principles of freedom and equality.

Overall, the structure of common Sense is designed to present a clear and persuasive
argument for American independence. Paine's use of simple and direct language, as well as
his appeal to the common sense of the American people, helped to make the pamphlet one of
the most influential political works of the American Revolution.
Analogy

Common Sense by Thomas Paine can be likened to a matchstick that ignites a fire. Just as a
single matchstick can set ablaze a whole forest, Paine's pamphlet ignited a revolutionary
spirit that spread like wildfire throughout the American colonies.

Paine's ideas and arguments in Common Sense were simple, straightforward, and accessible
to the common people. His writing style was like a spark that ignited the passion for liberty
and independence in the hearts of the colonists. Like a matchstick, Paine's words lit the flame
of revolution, which eventually led to the birth of a new nation.

In summary, Common Sense can be seen as a catalyst that sparked a revolutionary

movement, much like a matchstick that sets a fire ablaze.

The American Situation

The situation of America is one of great turmoil and uncertainty in the years leading up to
the American Revolution. Paine writes at a time when the colonists are deeply divided about
their relationship with Great Britain, with some advocating for reconciliation and others
pushing for independence.

Paine argues that reconciliation with Great Britain is not possible, and that independence is
the only way for the colonists to secure their rights and freedoms. He criticizes the British
monarchy and Parliament, arguing that they have no legitimate authority over the colonies,
and that their rule is unjust and oppressive.

Paine also highlights the economic hardships that the colonists are facing, including high
taxes and trade restrictions, and argues that these issues can only be resolved through
independence.

Overall, Paine's Common Sense provides a powerful argument for the colonists to embrace
the idea of independence, and to take action to secure their freedom and sovereignty. The
book was widely read and influential in the years leading up to the American Revolution, and
played a significant role in shaping the attitudes and beliefs of the colonists during this
critical period in American history.
Conclusion/Ending Note

The conclusion of Common Sense by Thomas Paine is a passionate call to action, urging
the American people to take up arms against the British and declare their independence.
Paine argues that the time for debate and compromise is over, and that the only way to secure
freedom and justice is through a bold and decisive act of rebellion. He writes:

“O ye that love mankind! Ye that dare oppose not only the tyranny but the tyrant,
stand forth! Every spot of the old world is overrun with oppression. Freedom hath
been hunted round the globe. Asia, and Africa, have long expelled her—Europe
regards her like a stranger, and England hath given her warning to depart. O!
receive the fugitive, and prepare in time an asylum for mankind.”

Paine's words have become iconic in American history, inspiring generations of

revolutionaries and freedom fighters. His stirring rhetoric and uncompromising vision
continue to resonate today, as people around the world struggle to secure their rights and
liberties.

In conclusion, Common Sense is a powerful and persuasive work that helped shape the
course of American history. Its legacy is one of courage, conviction, and a deep belief in the
power of ordinary people to change the world. As we reflect on Paine's message, let us
remember that the fight for freedom and justice is ongoing, and that each of us has a role to
play in shaping the future of our world.