Skip to content

Every history of the creation, and every traditionary…

“Every history of the creation, and every traditionary account, whether from the lettered or unlettered world, however they may vary in their opinion or belief of certain particulars, all agree in establishing one point, the unity of man; by which I mean that men are all of one degree, and…” quote by Thomas Paine
Download Open image
““Every history of the creation, and every traditionary account, whether from the lettered or unlettered world, however they may vary in their opinion or belief of certain particulars, all agree in establishing one point, the unity of man; by which I mean that men are all of one degree, and consequently that all men are born equal, and with equal natural right, in the same manner as if posterity had been continued by creation instead of generation, the latter being the only mode by which he former is carried forward; and consequently every child born into the world must be considered as deriving its existence from God. The world is as new to him as it was to the first man that existed, and his natural right in it is of the same kind.””

Thomas Paine

About This Quote

Source Treat: Rights of Man, 1791

All humans share a natural equality and right to the world, originating from divine creation, regardless of differing traditions or opinions.

In simple terms: All people are equally born with natural rights.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and uphold equal rights for everyone.

Themes

equality human rights divine origin natural law

Mood

reflective inspirational

Type

philosophical political ethical

When to use this quote

  • education
  • policy making
  • social justice advocacy
  • interfaith dialogue

Key Concepts

philosophy political theory theology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do we reconcile varied cultural views on equality?
  • What responsibilities arise from recognizing equal natural rights?
A Different Perspective

Different cultures may interpret equality differently, causing conflict.

2.6 out of 5 (4 ratings)

More by Thomas Paine

Explore all 772 Thomas Paine quotes

More Children quotes

Browse all 62,396 Children quotes