“Independence is my happiness, and I view things as they are, without regard to place or person; my country is the world, and my religion is to do good.”

Part 2.7 Chapter V. Ways and means of improving the condition of Europe, interspersed with miscellaneous observations
Source: 1790s, Rights of Man, Part 2 (1792)
Context: I speak an open and disinterested language, dictated by no passion but that of humanity. To me, who have not only refused offers, because I thought them improper, but have declined rewards I might with reputation have accepted, it is no wonder that meanness and imposition appear disgustful. Independence is my happiness, and I view things as they are, without regard to place or person; my country is the world, and my religion is to do good.

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Thomas Paine 262
English and American political activist 1737–1809

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“My country is the world, and my religion is to do good.”

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