Tuesday, December 23, 2008

The Age of Reason

The Age of Reason is a controversial book about religion by Thomas Paine, the Anglo American author who also wrote two of the most famous books in American Literature titled The Rights of Man and Common Sense. The Age of Reason was published as part one in 1794, and as parts one and two in 1796. Thomas Paine endorsed a natural religion based entirely on reason, and was against atheism and Christianity equally. Thomas Paine decided to write The Age of Reason because the French Revolution in 1789 was opposed to all established religions, as is evident in the quote "lest, in the general wreck of superstition we lose sight of morality, of humanity, and of the theology that is true". The Age of Reason alienated Thomas Paine from most of his friends, including George Washington, because of its radical attack on popular religion. It should however be noted that although it was viewed with great distaste, The Age of Reason has withstood the test of time. This lasting impact of the book is due to its influence on 19Th century criticism of Christianity and the Bible.



Thomas Paine leather bound books

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