The initial post states that Thomas Paine, as a deist, criticizes Christianity extensively. Additionally, his views are surprising in the context of the time in which he lived. Indeed, it is extremely daring of him to criticize religion using the publication of The age of reason (Paine, 2014). The post also notes that Paine emphasizes that religious beliefs should not be imposed but should be an act of human will. I agree with the author of the post that this is an extremely surprising move that caused many controversies. At the same time, I would like to emphasize that as the founder of the country, Paine may have promoted the principles of democracy through such criticism of religion. Although such views were not popular at the time, they are now commonplace in society.
Even in such a discourse, his statements are surprising, but that is why they increase in value. As a deist, Paine advocated rationality and the use of scientific knowledge as evidence. I think he bravely opposed the popular agenda of morality and ethics based on biblical revelation. This view is revolutionary for the time because Paine basically encouraged people to build their own value systems. I think that this view of religion, in general, is the basis for a free society that is independent of control. Thus, Paine expressed a really surprising point, which now seems normal to us. However, at that time, with his views, he contradicted universal morality and religious teachings.
The boldness of his statements in the context of the period of time is striking in its boldness, as well as revolutionary. I think he made a significant contribution, not only religiously but also politically, with his publications.
Reference
Paine, T. (2014). Age of reason: The definitive edition. Michigan Legal Publishing Limited.