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Thomas Paine1737–1809

Thomas Paine on government

Government, even in its best state, is but a necessary evil; in its worst state, an intolerable one.

Common Sense (January 10, 1776)

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More from Thomas Paine

Those who expect to reap the blessings of freedom must, like men, undergo the fatigue of supporting it.
As quoted in The Crisis No. IV (12 September 1777)
- Freedom
He that would make his own liberty secure, must guard even his enemy from opposition; for if he violates this duty he establishes a precedent that will reach himself.
First Principles of Government (1795)
- Liberty
The harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph.
“The Crisis” (written 19 December 1776, published 23 December 1776), no. 1, in Moncure D. Conway, ed., The Writings of Thomas Paine (1894), vol. 1, p. 170.
- Success

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More about government

The best government is that which governs least.
John L. O'Sullivan1813–1895Often credited to Thomas Paine
Democracy is two wolves and a lamb voting on what to have for lunch.
?UnattributedOften credited to Benjamin Franklin
- Democracy
The best argument against democracy is a five-minute conversation with the average voter.
?UnattributedOften credited to Winston Churchill
- Democracy

All 575 quotes about government