Argument Quote by Thomas Paine
“When an objection cannot be made formidable, there is some policy in trying to make it frightful; and to substitute the yell and the war-whoop, in the place of reason, argument and good order.”
About This Quote
Source Treatise: Common Sense, 1776
When a weak objection is ignored, people resort to intimidation and chaos instead of reasoned debate.
In simple terms: Weak arguments lead to fear tactics.
Key Takeaway
Seek rational discourse over intimidation.
Themes
politics
argument
reason
chaos
Mood
concerned
critical
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- legislative debates
- media commentary
- courtroom trials
- community meetings
Key Concepts
rhetoric
power dynamics
public discourse
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies protect reason in heated disputes?
- What safeguards prevent intimidation from replacing argument?
A Different Perspective
Relying on fear can undermine long‑term legitimacy.
