Where is the Common Sense?
Peter J. Merrick, TEP
I Execute Tax Solutions Through Life Insurance so that Your Business, Family, Wealth, and You are De-Risked and Protected. Expertise: Commentator/Keynote & US/ International Cross-Border! Peter@PeterMerrick.com
Where is the Common Sense? In November 2020, a week after the contentious US Presidential Election, I found myself at the Denver Airport, there to deliver a keynote speech. It was during this moment of uncertainty that I picked up Thomas Paine's "Common Sense" for the first time. This US Revolutionary pamphlet is, without a doubt, a must-read for anyone who values freedom, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
"Common Sense" holds a special place in American history as a foundational document of the American Revolution, the American Nation. As a writer I can appreciate Paine's passionate prose, they resonated then and continue to resonate today. In the midst of political turmoil in the American Colonies, Paine's arguments were a source of inspiration, much like they are in our current day.
Published in 1776, "Common Sense" was a call for independence. It eloquently argued for the moral and practical necessity of breaking away from British rule. Paine championed the idea of natural rights and the principle that governments should derive their authority from the consent of the governed. These ideas, rooted in the pamphlet, formed the philosophical basis for the birth of a new nation. How we as a people have forgotten.
This pamphlet's significance during the American Revolution cannot be overstated. It fueled the fire of revolution, galvanizing support for independence. In fact, the Continental Congress and the American Founding Fathers drew heavily from the ideas expressed in "Common Sense" when drafting the Declaration of Independence.
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In this turbulent era it is time to go back to basics, reading "Common Sense" is more than an intellectual exercise; it's a call to action. It reminds us of the importance of being informed and vigilant in safeguarding our democratic constitutional ideals and natural rights as human beings. I am not just suggesting you read "Common Sense" it is an essential read.
Each of us has a duty to know our foundational principles, to have an appreciation for those principles, so we can honor those that came before us and to fight to maintain our natural rights. It is our duty to pass on those freedoms to future generations.
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Professional Private Investigator and Owner of Silent Warrior Investigations
7moAfter reading "common sense" and the amazing fore sight our founders had, plus still apply today. I should say, should apply even today! But there seems to be a lack of "common sense" in dealing with matters facing America, maybe our leaders should try it.
Senior Business Consultant | New Business Development, Analytical Skills
7moThere's wisdom in those oft quoted words! Show how keen the human intellect has been over the centuries. I'm talking well before the pyramids. Have we come a long way? Physically yes, mentally ... maybe not. I also find it interesting written words of wisdom and meaning outlasts author names and accomplishments. Why? Because their thoughts remain valuable and relevant regardless of context. I am a fan of common sense. Didn't know its origins but glad to see examples of it properly applied over the centuries. Maybe there's hope for our society, day and age yet? Hope so, hate to go extinct prematurely.
CEO @ TreasuryPros | Treasury Management Consulting, Financial Literacy
7moYou are referring to what is now known as "uncommon sense" I'm a world gone mad.