1. Natural Rights: Paine argued that all humans are endowed with certain natural rights, such as life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. He asserted that these rights are derived from God and are inalienable, meaning they cannot be rightfully taken away by any government or authority.
2. Sovereignty of the People: Paine maintained that the power and legitimacy of government come from the consent of the governed. He argued that governments exist to serve the people, not the other way around. If a government fails to fulfill its purpose or violates the natural rights of its citizens, the people have the right to alter or abolish it and establish a new government that better secures their rights.
3. Tyranny and the British Government: Paine strongly criticized the British government for its oppressive policies towards the American colonies. He argued that the British had repeatedly violated the rights of colonists, imposed unjust taxes without their consent, and disregarded their interests and concerns. He portrayed the British government as tyrannical and unfit to rule over the colonies.
4. Independence as the Only Solution: Paine asserted that the only way for the colonies to secure their natural rights and protect themselves from tyranny was to declare independence and establish a sovereign nation. He argued that reconciliation with Britain was impossible and that the time had come for the colonies to break free and create a new government based on the principles of liberty and equality.
5. Economic Advantages: Paine also argued that independence would bring economic benefits to the colonies. He believed that by cutting ties with Britain, the colonies would be able to trade more freely and develop their own industries and economy without the restrictions imposed by the British government.
6. Time for Action: Paine emphasized the urgency of the situation and called for immediate action. He argued that the time was ripe for the colonies to seize their opportunity for independence and shape their own destiny. He urged the colonists to unite and fight for their freedom, inspiring them with the belief that they had the strength and courage to succeed.
7. The Example of Other Nations: Paine drew upon the examples of other nations that had successfully fought for their independence, such as the Dutch, Swiss, and Corsicans. He argued that the American colonies could follow in their footsteps and establish their own free and independent nation.
Through these arguments, Common Sense aimed to persuade the American colonists to embrace the cause of independence, unite against British rule, and establish a new nation based on the principles of liberty, equality, and self-government.