Question

Common Sense
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

Question
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 “leave little or no distinction,” shows the author’s feelings towards individuals in the community.
Words, such as “leave little or no distinction,” shows the author’s feelings towards individuals in the community.

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 “restraining our vices,” shows the author’s feelings towards society in general.

Answers

GPT-4o mini
The best analysis of 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 stance towards the government, suggesting that he views it as a necessary evil that arises from human flaws, contrasting it with the positive nature of society.

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