Character Quote by Thomas Paine
““This necessity, like a gravitating power, would soon form our newly arrived emigrants into society, the reciprocal blessing of which, would supersede, and render the obligations of law and government unnecessary while they remained perfectly just to each other; but as nothing but heaven is impregnable to vice, it will unavoidably happen, that in proportion as they surmount the first difficulties of emigration, which bound them together in a common cause, they will begin to relax in their duty and attachment to each other; and this remissness, will point out the necessity, of establishing some form of government to supply the defect of moral virtue.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: Common Sense, Thomas Paine, 1776
Early societies rely on mutual aid, but as they prosper they need formal governance to address moral shortcomings.
In simple terms: People start with cooperation, then need rules as they grow.
Key Takeaway
Build institutions before moral decay sets in.
Themes
community
governance
morality
social contract
Mood
cautious
hopeful
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- Founding a community
- establishing NGOs
- drafting constitutions
- policy making
Key Concepts
Reciprocity
institutionalism
ethical decay
Questions to Reflect On
- What safeguards prevent government abuse?
- How can communities maintain virtue without authority?
A Different Perspective
Idealistic view ignores power struggles and inequality.
