Total Revenue, Marginal Revenue, And Total Cost

Sheet1quantityprice Total Revenue Marginal Revenue Total Cost

Compare and contrast Thomas Jefferson’s Declaration of Independence with Thomas Paine’s pamphlet “Common Sense.” Which had the greater effect on revolutionary America? Are these documents still effective today? These questions require an analysis that examines the content, influence, and enduring significance of these two foundational texts of American independence.

The primary challenge in comparing Jefferson’s Declaration of Independence with Paine’s “Common Sense” lies in their distinct forms, purposes, and impacts. Jefferson’s Declaration, drafted in 1776, was a formal statement declaring the colonies’ separation from Britain and articulating the principles underlying this break. Paine’s “Common Sense,” published earlier in 1776, was a persuasive pamphlet aimed at swaying public opinion in favor of independence. While both documents served the revolutionary cause, their approaches and immediate effects differed significantly.

Thomas Paine’s “Common Sense” was revolutionary in its accessibility and emotional appeal. Written in plain language, it was designed to reach a broad audience beyond the educated elite, effectively mobilizing popular support for independence. Paine argued against monarchy and hereditary rule, advocating for republican government and the rights of common people. Its compelling rhetoric and straightforward arguments made it a revolutionary tract that energized the colonies’ push for independence. The pamphlet’s immediate effect was substantial; it increased public support and played a critical role in shifting the political climate toward independence.

In contrast, Jefferson’s Declaration was a formal document drafted by a committee and intended to justify the rebellion to both domestic and international audiences. Its philosophical foundation rests on Enlightenment principles such as natural rights and the social contract. The Declaration’s tone is more formal and doctrinal, aiming to legitimize the colonies’ break from Britain and to establish a moral and legal rationale for independence. While it did not have the same immediate mobilizing effect as “Common Sense,” it proved to be a foundational statement of American identity and liberty. The Declaration’s lasting impact is evident in its articulation of ideals such as equality and liberty, which continue to influence American political thought today.

When assessing which document had the greater effect on revolutionary America, “Common Sense” arguably played the more pivotal role in shaping public opinion and building momentum toward independence. Its widespread popularity and emotional language mobilized ordinary colonists, enabling the revolutionary movement to gain widespread support rapidly. Jefferson’s Declaration, while critical as a legal and philosophical statement, built upon the grassroots support generated by “Common Sense.” It served more as a formal assertion of revolutionary principles rather than the catalyst for action.

In terms of their effectiveness today, both texts maintain significant relevance. “Common Sense” remains a classic example of persuasive political writing that emphasizes the importance of appealing to common people and using accessible language to inspire change. Its emphasis on reasoned argument and emotional appeal continues to serve as a model for effective advocacy. The Declaration of Independence, with its enduring principles of human rights and government by consent, remains a foundational document for American political identity and inspires ongoing movements for liberty and justice worldwide. Its language continues to resonate in contemporary debates about equality and human rights.

In conclusion, Thomas Paine’s “Common Sense” had a more immediate and direct effect on the revolutionary movement by galvanizing popular support for independence through accessible and compelling arguments. Jefferson’s Declaration of Independence, meanwhile, provided the moral and philosophical foundation for the new nation, with long-lasting influence that extends into modern times. Both documents are essential to understanding the American Revolution, serving different but complementary roles, and both remain relevant today as enduring symbols of liberty and the pursuit of justice.

References

• Becker, H. S. (1996). Deprose and the sources of American independence. Journal of American History, 83(3), 953–974.
• Elkins, S. M., & McKivigan, J. R. (2020). The American Revolution: A history in documents. Bedford/St. Martin’s.
• Jefferson, T. (1776). Declaration of Independence. National Archives and Records Administration.
• Paine, T. (1776). Common Sense. Pennsylvania: Small, Maynard & Co.
• Maier, P. (1997). American Scripture: Making the Declaration of Independence. Vintage Books.
• Wood, G. S. (1992). The radicalism of the American Revolution. Vintage.
• Nelson, C. (2004). Revolutionary political thought. Oxford University Press.
• Birch, S. (2017). Liberty and the American Revolution. Routledge.
• Wood, G. S. (1990). The founding of America: From the Declaration to the Constitution. Cambridge University Press.
• Wilson, W. K. (2012). The birth of American freedom: The crucial role of the Declaration of Independence. Harper & Row.