My presentation covers the literature of Thomas Paine and it's precedence on the society in which we live. I believe that his work has long been overshadowed by time and willful ignorance. The man who I am presenting about was a founding member of the first abolitionist society, along with Benjamin Franklin, and was a violent critic of theocracy and divine right to rule. He championed the power of the individual. His work helped fuel our war of independence against the English crown and helped ignite the fire of reason which inspired another generation of free thinkers. It absolutely marvels me that there was a man who existed with these opinions over 200 years ago.
Alex Kiel is majoring in psychology and minoring in history. He says, “I really like reading Christopher Hitchens, Thomas Paine, and Sam Harris. I plan on going to graduate school after I graduate, but I am not sure for what. I have traveled to over two dozen countries and a dream of mine is to travel to all 7 continents. A quote that has really helped me through life is, ‘Life is 5% what happens to you, and 95% what you do about it.’”