Common Sense

By: Thomas Paine

Narrated by: Walter Dixon

Length: 2 hrs and 17 mins

Publisher's summary

Thomas Paine published Common Sense in 1776, a time when America was a hotbed of revolution. The pamphlet, which called for America's political freedom, sold more than 150,000 copies in three months. Paine not only spurred his fellow Americans to action but soon came to symbolize the spirit of the Revolution itself. His persuasive pieces, written so elegantly, spoke to the hearts and minds of all those fighting for freedom from England.

Public Domain (P)2011 Gildan Media Corp

Critic reviews

“No writer has exceeded Paine in ease and familiarity of style; in perspicuity of expression, happiness of elucidation, and in simple unassuming language.” (Thomas Jefferson)

"In unity . . . our great strength"

You know a book is really good when people are still talking about it almost two and a half centuries later. Thomas Paine wrote and published "Common Sense" (January 9 or 10, 1776), demanding independence from Great Britain.

Paine published anonymously out of necessity. What he wrote was treason, and what he advocated then might be called terrorism today. If the colonists had lost, the Revolutionary War would have been consigned to the ignominy of an armed insurrection.

"Common Sense" was actually one of the first audio books. General George Washington had it read to the troops of his Continental Army, and inspired Americans read it to their illiterate neighbors. It's fun to imagine colonists meeting in secret to discuss the radical ideas that became the Declaration of Independence and eventually, the Constitution.

Walter Dixon's narration wasn't particularly inspired, so I'm not giving the narration high marks. But as for the book - the cornerstone of American democracy deserves a 5.

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A Masterpiece

Common Sense is one of the greatest essays ever written. It is bold and powerful and irrefutable. It should be required reading in any debate or history class.

Not sure how to write this…

The narrator was good though at points the archaic and sophisticated language was hard to follow. Not having lived the history I am surprised at how emotional the arguments are. I was also surprised that some of the arguments weren't stronger.

All that said it reflects the point in American history so I am glad I listen to it.

Treatise from our Founding

This is an excellent political treatise from our founding, laced through with subtle philosophy, witty banter, and more than a trace of wry humor. Well worth reading, even today.

required reading for every American!

anyone who eants to understand the political Philosophy of our nation and the rrasons for its freedoms ought to consider this volume

This should be required reading in US schools.

Common sense

I loved listening to this. Paine makes compelling arguments and does so by referencing the Bible and the history of monarches.

This should be required reading in school, and bring back civics.

If I were a mom I would homeschool my children and this would be in the curriculum.

5 out of 5 Revolutions.

Every Black Person Should Read This Book! Woww!

As a Black woman, all my life I've had questions around christianity. This book was eye opening for me. Today I would describe myself as a deist.

Started

and stopped reading this book many times over the years. I would highly recommend you buy this book. Very relevant, even today!

Common Sense

This was a very informative and historical piece. Thanks to all that made it available

ur forefathers had great insight into the desire for freedom!

I enjoyed the insight and background of this piece. Two hundred plus years later it is imperative to know what the forefathers were dealing with.