To establish any mode to abolish war, however advantageous it might be to Nations, would be to take from such Government the most lucrative of its branches. – Thomas Paine
Government, even in its best state, is but a necessary evil in its worst state, an intolerable one. – Thomas Paine
I believe in the equality of man and I believe that religious duties consist in doing justice, loving mercy, and endeavoring to make our fellow-creatures happy. – Thomas Paine
All national institutions of churches, whether Jewish, Christian or Turkish, appear to me no other than human inventions, set up to terrify and enslave mankind, and monopolize power and profit. – Thomas Paine