Difficulty: Medium

Average Score: 71%

The provided passage is from Thomas Paine's Common Sense: '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

Equal executive branch.

Paine would likely reject the notion of an equal executive branch, as he advocated for a strong and effective government that could act decisively in the interest of the people. An equal executive branch could lead to inefficiency and indecision, which Paine would view as detrimental to governance.

A (existence of state sovereignty) YOUR ANSWER

Paine recognized the importance of a cohesive national government over fragmented state sovereignty. He believed that too much power at the state level could undermine the unity and effectiveness of the nation, making this choice contrary to his views on governance.

B (adherence to natural rights) YOUR ANSWER

Natural rights were a cornerstone of Paine's political philosophy, which emphasized individual liberty and protection from tyranny. He would likely support the adherence to natural rights as essential to a just government, making this choice inconsistent with his potential rejections.

C (strong national legislature) YOUR ANSWER

Paine advocated for a robust national legislature to ensure representation and responsiveness to the needs of the populace. He believed that a strong legislative body was crucial for the protection of rights and the promotion of the common good, thus making this option one he would not reject.

D (equal executive branch) CORRECT

Paine would likely reject the concept of an equal executive branch due to his emphasis on strong leadership and effective governance. He viewed a decisive executive as necessary to implement laws and maintain order, making an equal distribution of power within the executive a potential obstacle to effective leadership.

Conclusion

Paine's political philosophy emphasizes strong and decisive government structures that prioritize governance efficiency and the protection of natural rights. While he would likely support the existence of a strong national legislature and recognize the dangers of excessive state sovereignty, the idea of an equal executive branch contradicts his belief in effective leadership, leading him to reject that concept.