Common Sense" by Thomas Paine Term Paper

Total Length: 1151 words ( 4 double-spaced pages)

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" Paine explains that the next war may not be as kind on the people of Britain, therefore it is necessary to learn the errors of past views and perspectives in order to spare future generations and relationships between Great Britain and surrounding areas. Paine begins focusing on the effects of this continued perception of negativity on future wars. "The next war may not turn out like the last, and should it not, the advocates for reconciliation now will be wishing for the last..."

Paine uses this essay as a platform not only to inform the reader about the current situations concerning past and future wars, he also uses the essay as an opportunity to open the readers eyes to the similarities in man regardless of his location or circumstances. He expresses that the government and its rain like all things must end. "The authority of Great Britain over this continent is a form of government, which sooner or later must have an end.... As parents, we can have no joy, knowing that this government is not sufficiently lasting."

It is easy to see that Paine is crying out for acknowledgment of his views that he wants to open the eyes of those in Great Britain and surrounding areas. He uses the entire essay to discuss the matter from several perspectives. This allows the reader to become familiar with the varying views of those throughout England and America.

Toward the end of the essay, Pain uses contrast and comparisons to depict the continued stress and strain between Great Britain and America. He first describes the situation, and then expresses how the conflict is on both sides of i.e. Great Britain and America.


Paine utilizes his ability to draw from the conflict in order to draw the reader into his views and perception, although he states, "I offer nothing more than simple facts, plain arguments, and common sense." When in fact he uses the writing as an opportunity to express his personal views and explain why others views may not be the best perspective. In contrast, he does discuss the importance of peace and friend ship; however, he poses this concept in different ways throughout the writing. "Everything that is right or reasonable pleads for separation. The blood of the slain, the weeping voice of nature cries, TIS TIME to PART.... Come, come, we shall be friends again for all this.... Ye that tell us of harmony and reconciliation, can ye restore to us the time that is past?"

More important than the functions of the techniques he uses independently is how Paine uses these techniques together. For example, had he stated earlier on in his essay about his perceptions, and the role they have played in current events, would have changed the feel and view of the entire essay. This approach would certainly have prevented the essay from being as dynamic and effective in its presentation. It is obvious that Paine purposely used the techniques in a planned way. This afforded him the opportunity to design an essay that was able to present his ideas in an appropriate and affect the way the reader perceives the finished product.

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"Common Sense By Thomas Paine" (2008, February 10) Retrieved May 14, 2025, from
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"Common Sense By Thomas Paine" 10 February 2008. Web.14 May. 2025. <
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Latest Chicago Format (16th edition)

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"Common Sense By Thomas Paine", 10 February 2008, Accessed.14 May. 2025,
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