by Thomas Paine
Some writers have so confounded society with government, as to leave little or no distinction between them; whereas they are not only different, but have different origins. Society is produced by our wants, and government by our wickedness; the former promotes our happiness positively by uniting our affections, the latter negatively by restraining our vices. The one encourages intercourse, the other creates distinctions. The first a patron, the last a punisher.
"Common Sense" by Thomas Paine
Use the excerpt to answer the question.
Which statement best analyzes the author’s use of language in the excerpt?
(1 point)
Responses
Words, such as “wickedness,” shows the author’s opinion of some governments.
Words, such as “wickedness,” shows the author’s opinion of some governments.
Words, such as “restraining our vices,” shows the author’s feelings towards society in general.
Words, such as “restraining our vices,” shows the author’s feelings towards society in general.
Words, such as “creates distinction,” shows the author’s attitude towards journalists of the day.
Words, such as “creates distinction,” shows the author’s attitude towards journalists of the day.
Words, such as “leave little or no distinction,” shows the author’s feelings towards individuals in the community.
1 answer
The statement that best analyzes the author’s use of language in the excerpt is:
Words, such as “wickedness,” shows the author’s opinion of some governments.
This choice accurately reflects Paine's critical view of government as stemming from negative aspects of human nature, contrasting it with the positive nature of society.
