“There are two distinct species of popularity; the one excited by merit, the other by resentment.”
-Thomas Paine
Too often it seems as if our political leaders and those seeking power pander toward the worst in people – intolerance and resentment, fear and prejudice. Achieving popularity by inciting the darker passions in people may win elections, but it does not constitute merit.
I would very much like to introduce you to a book constructed around Paine’s “Common Sense” that is making its way into elementary, middle and high-schools nationwide in the U.S:
The Elementary Common Sense of Thomas Paine: An Interactive Adaptation for all Ages.
I am a fifth-grade teacher in Colorado and I adapted Common Sense for readers 11 to adult. (What I consider to be one of the most important, and overlooked, founding documents in America.) The original version is also included.
Also included are a dozen activities for school districts, teachers and homeschoolers. Everything can be accessed on the interactive website as well.
Happily, I can say that many many schools have started integrating the book into their curriculum, so our citizens are starting to learn about Mr. Paine from the age of 10. Additionally, the book is also being used by some states to convince their legislatures to pass a Paine observation day.
Please feel free to visit the book’s website: http://www.NewCommonSenseBook.com
My very best wishes,
Mark