The Rights of Man · Chapter
Part First: Being an Answer to Mr. Burke’s Attack on the French Revolution explained
Thomas Paine responds to Edmund Burke's critique of the French Revolution, defending the principles of popular sovereignty and natural rights, and arguing against hereditary government and Burke's defense of tradition.
What happens
Thomas Paine responds to Edmund Burke's critique of the French Revolution, defending the principles of popular sovereignty and natural rights, and arguing against hereditary government and Burke's defense of tradition.
Themes in this chapter
Natural Rights of Man
Paine argues that rights are inherent to all individuals, not granted by governments or hereditary succession.
Popular Sovereignty
Paine asserts that political authority derives from the consent of the people, not from monarchs or tradition.
Characters to notice
- Thomas Paine
Author and primary voice of the chapter, defending the French Revolution.
- Edmund Burke
Target of Paine's rebuttal; criticized for his attack on the French Revolution.
- Marquis de La Fayette
Mentioned in connection with the Declaration of the Rights of Man.
- George Washington
Recipient of Paine's dedication in The Rights of Man.
Key passages
“Part First Being an Answer to Mr. Burke’s Attack on the French Revolution”
This first part is a direct response to Edmund Burke's criticism of the French Revolution.
Opening statement establishing the chapter's purpose.