Difficulty: Medium

Average Score: 67%

Passage (from Thomas Paine's Common Sense, 1776):But as the same constitution which gives the Commons a power to check the King by withholding the supplies, gives afterwards the King a power to check the Commons, by empowering him to reject their other bills; it again supposes that the King is wiser than those whom it has already supposed to be wiser than him. A mere absurdity!

Based on this passage, which aspect of the U.S. Constitution might Paine reject?

Rationale

Strong national legislature.

Paine critiques the balance of power within the structure of government, particularly highlighting the absurdity of the King having the authority to counteract the Commons' decisions. He implies that a strong national legislature should not be undermined by a monarchial power that has been deemed less rational.

A (existence of state sovereignty) YOUR ANSWER

While the question asks about Paine's rejection of an aspect of the Constitution, it is too vague and does not specify which part he objects to. Paine's focus is particularly on the dynamic between the King and the Commons, not a broad critique of the entire Constitution. Thus, this choice lacks the specificity needed to address his concerns directly.

B (adherence to natural rights) YOUR ANSWER

Paine does not express opposition to state sovereignty in this passage. His argument centers around the checks and balances between the legislative and executive branches rather than the concept of states having their own powers. Thus, this choice does not align with his critique.

C (strong national legislature) YOUR ANSWER

Paine is a strong proponent of natural rights, as he argues for individual liberty and rational governance. His criticism is not directed at the concept of natural rights, which is foundational to his philosophy. Therefore, this choice misrepresents Paine's views.

E () YOUR ANSWER

Paine's argument does not specifically address the equality of the executive branch; instead, it focuses on the imbalance created by a monarch having the power to check the legislature. This choice does not capture the essence of his critique regarding the legislative power dynamics.

Conclusion

Paine's passage critiques the absurdity of a monarch's power to check a strong national legislature, arguing that it contradicts the logic of governance. He emphasizes that the King, viewed as less wise, should not possess the authority to counteract the Commons. Thus, his primary rejection lies in the structure that undermines a robust legislative body, making "strong national legislature" the most fitting choice.