The Rights of Man is a political pamphlet written by Thomas Paine, a human rights advocate. The book argues for political independence and individual freedoms, with Paine emphasizing the idea of popular sovereignty where power lies in the hands of the people. It was revolutionary at the time of its publication and had a profound impact on popular thinking about rights and liberty.

Titlepage

Imprint

Editor’s Introduction

Dedication

Paine’s Preface to the English Edition

Paine’s Preface to the French Edition

Rights of Man

Declaration of the Rights of Man and of Citizens by the National Assembly of France

Observations on the Declaration of Rights

Miscellaneous Chapter

Conclusion

Part First: Being an Answer to Mr. Burke’s Attack on the French Revolution

French Translator’s Preface (1792)

To M. de la Fayette

Preface

Introduction

I: Of Society and Civilisation

II: Of the Origin of the Present Old Governments

III: Of the Old and New Systems of Government

IV: Of Constitutions

V: Ways and Means of Improving the Condition of Europe: Interspersed with Miscellaneous Observations