Rights of Man Paperback – 12 Sept. 2017

I downloaded this book out of curiosity, but I'm glad I did: it was an eye-opener. It was a vigorous response to Edmond Burke's attack on the French revolution.Paine tears apart monarchies and traditional social institutions. His arguments are cogent. Selling around a million copies it had a sensational impact: Paine was chased out of Britain. England, Paine says, missed an opportunity at the restoration of the monarchy in 1688. He is particularly critical of our lack of a constitution, which he says plays into the hands of traditional hierarchies.Interestingly, Paine says little about women. Also, his commitment to individual freedom and moral equality may lean towards utopianism. That said, he influenced both the French and American revolutions where his values found important practical outcomes.One feels that a voice as clear as Paine's might be welcome today, not least because our politicians are currently in very low public esteem. You don't have to sympathise with Paine's ideas to get something out of this book: in fact the opposite may be the case.

I purchased this as I was studying a Jurisprudence module at my University (Northumbria), and it was also useful for the Trials of dissenters module taught there too.From the non-academic perspective, it is an interesting read, and very well written (especially considering that Tom never went to school).It is an easy to understand and thought provoking read that still has importance today.

Part 1 of the book could make an interesting read for some one with the background of the French Revolution and has read Burke's Reflection. Otherwise the book might excite only at places, but still there is enough food for thought.Yet to read Part 2.More thoughts on Part 1 of the book at : [...]

this book is full of important statements on the rights of man which have founded the strength's of modern Western civilized society. It can be read in parts and pick out the most relevant to your interest.

Was that written three centuries ago, or three days ago?The more things change, the more they stay the same...

I cant recomend this book highly enough, it may be hundreds of years old but its right on the money, even today. Thomas paine was said to be the first whisleblower and it was john pilger who said it, all books by paine and pilger must be read by all. Thomas paine was years ahead of his time, a brilliant common sense mind.

I bought this cause I'm intrigued how Politian's think, I believe this book will answer my questions. looks pretty good.

Thomas Paine writes a book that is as relevant today as it was at the end of the eighteenth century. Anybody who lives in a "constitutional" monarchy needs to read this, in order to reflectively consider their social/political identity. Very engaging, interesting, thoughtful, provocative and entertaining. Thoroughly recommended.