The Rights of Man – Thomas Paine

The Rights of Man by Thomas Paine is a powerful defense of democracy, individual liberty, and revolution, written in response to criticism of the French Revolution. Published in two parts (1791 and 1792), this influential political treatise argues that government should exist to protect the natural rights of its citizens and that hereditary monarchy and aristocracy are unjust and outdated systems.

Paine critiques Edmund Burke’s Reflections on the Revolution in France, advocating instead for representative democracy, social welfare, and the idea that political authority should derive from the consent of the governed. His radical ideas about equality, freedom, and governance helped shape modern democratic thought and inspired political movements across the world.

Though controversial in its time, The Rights of Man remains a foundational text in political philosophy, still relevant in discussions about human rights, governance, and social justice. A must-read for students of history, politics, and anyone interested in the fight for democracy.