The Writings of Thomas Paine — Volume 2 (1779-1792): The Rights of Man

Language: en

Thomas Paine's Rights of Man argues that human rights are inherent. As such, they cannot be conferred on citizens by their governments because to do so would mean that these rights can be revoked by that same government. Paine further suggests that government is responsible for protecting the rights of men, and therefore, the interests of governments and citizens are united. Within this context, Paine argues that revolution is acceptable when the rights of men are not respected or defended by their governments.Originally published in two volumes in 1791 and 1792, Paine's discourse…