The Rights of Man

Compare and contrast the “natural law” theory of rights with Edmund Burke’s constitutionalism and/or the Divine Right of Kings theory. How does each theory conceive of rights? What are the key differences between them? Which theory do you find the most convincing, and why?

According to Thomas Paine, what is the significance of the American Revolution and its relationship with the French Revolution? Do you agree with Paine’s assessment of these revolutionary movements? Why or why not?

Explore the influence of the Enlightenment in Paine’s thought. What role does “reason” play in his conceptions of government? How do his ideas embody, expand, and/or undermine key Enlightenment ideas?