Question

Which of the following best describes Thomas Paine's argument in Common Sense?

A. The colonists have far more to lose by continuing to be a part of the British Empire.
B. Diplomacy with the British Parliament is the best way to settle differences.
C. Parliament is simply slow to respond, so the colonists must be patient in seeking their goals.
D. Breaking free of English control will hurt the colonists' chances of gaining economic freedom.

Answer 1

Thomas Paine's argument in Common Sense urged the colonists to declare independence from Great Britain by highlighting the failures of the British government and emphasizing principles of natural rights and equality. The correct option is D.

Step-by-step explanation:

Thomas Paine's argument in Common Sense can be best described as urging the colonists to break free from English control and declare independence from Great Britain. Paine argued that the British government had failed in its duty to the colonists by putting its own interests ahead of theirs.

He emphasized the principles of natural rights and equality, stating that having a king was not justified, especially if the king did not serve the interests of the people.

Paine's pamphlet appealed to both practical-minded merchants and principled philosophers, presenting both economic realities and higher principles of freedom. The correct option is D.