Common Sense Questions Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What is the reason Paine wrote this pamphlet?

To convince the colonists why they should break away from Britain.

What arguments does Paine use to reject the notion that colonies must remain connected to Great Britain for future happiness?

Times change, things change. We need them before, we don't really need it right now.

According to this pamphlet, why has Great Britain protected the colonies?

For their own interest; they get tobacco and cotton from the colonies.

How does Paine describe the geographical inconvenience of being ruled by Great Britain?

Everything has to go through Britain; they are too far away to manage the colonies. Signup and view all the answers

Cite examples that Paine makes in reference to nature and natural events in Common Sense.

In no instance hath nature made the satellite larger than its primary planet. Signup and view all the answers

Fallacious means ________.

Misleading Signup and view all the answers

Jesuitically refers to an action done with ________.

intrigue, with a sinister design Signup and view all the answers

Papistical implies a ________ attitude.

condescending Signup and view all the answers

Europe is the _________ of America.

parent country Signup and view all the answers

_________ is the market of the colonies, not just one of the country.

Europe Signup and view all the answers

What is Thomas Paine's famous quote?

In no instance hath nature made the satellite larger than its primary planet. Signup and view all the answers

Paine is telling the colonies to use ________.

common sense Signup and view all the answers

Paine compares the people in the ____________ to parasites as they only want the good out of the colonies.

Parliament Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Purpose of "Common Sense"

Thomas Paine wrote the pamphlet to persuade colonists to seek independence from Britain.

Arguments Against Ties to Great Britain

Paine argues that reliance on Britain is outdated, using the analogy of a child transitioning from milk to meat, indicating it's time to grow beyond former dependencies.

Great Britain's Motivations for Protection

Great Britain's interest in the colonies is primarily economic, as they extract resources like tobacco and cotton for profit, masking their self-serving motives behind a facade of protection.

Geographical Inconvenience

The vast distance between Britain and the colonies poses management challenges, causing delays in communication and governance, which Paine deems impractical.

References to Nature

Paine draws parallels from nature, citing that it is unnatural for a larger entity (Britain) to govern a smaller one (the colonies), reinforcing his arguments with examples like nature's design and maturity.

Vocabulary

Fallacious: Refers to misleading arguments or reasoning.
Jesuitically: Describes intrigue with sinister intentions.
Papistical: Carries connotations of condescension or superiority.

Europe and America Relations

Europe is described as the "parent country" of America, suggesting a familial connection but also implying a control dynamic.
Europe serves as the commercial market for the colonies rather than just a governing nation.

Notable Quotes

Thomas Paine’s memorable quote emphasizes natural order: "In no instance hath nature made the satellite larger than its primary planet."

Call to Action

Paine urges the colonists to embrace "common sense" in their quest for independence.

Critique of Parliament

Paine compares members of Parliament to parasites, insinuating they benefit from the colonies without offering genuine support or care for their welfare.

Description

Explore the key arguments presented by Thomas Paine in his influential pamphlet 'Common Sense.' This quiz consists of flashcards that challenge your understanding of Paine's rationale for American independence and his critiques of British rule.