What is the meaning of this aphorism from Paines the american crisis
what we obtain too cheap we esteem too lightly
wehn people sacrifice too much for a victory they do not appreciate the results
if we want to win a war we have to sacrifice all that we consider inexpensive
if we are not determined enough our enemies will not respect us
The meaning of this aphorism from Paine's "The American Crisis" is that when something is obtained too easily or at a low cost, it is often not valued or appreciated. In the context of the American Revolution, Paine is emphasizing the importance of making sacrifices and being determined in order to win the war. If the victory is achieved without much effort or sacrifice, it will not be respected by the enemies or fully appreciated by the people. Therefore, Paine suggests that in order to achieve true success, one must be willing to give up everything that is considered inexpensive or easy.
The meaning of the aphorism from Thomas Paine's "The American Crisis" that says "what we obtain too cheap we esteem too lightly" is that when something is easily won or obtained, we tend to undervalue or place less importance on it. Paine is suggesting that when people sacrifice too little or make little effort to achieve victory, they will not truly appreciate or understand the significance of the results.
Paine also emphasizes that in order to win a war, it is necessary to make significant sacrifices and be fully committed. He suggests that if one is not determined enough or willing to give up what they consider inexpensive or easy, their enemies will not respect or take them seriously. In essence, Paine is advocating for a strong and unwavering commitment to the cause one is fighting for.
The aphorism "what we obtain too cheap we esteem too lightly" from Thomas Paine's "The American Crisis" conveys the idea that when something is easily gained or achieved, it is often not valued or appreciated properly.
To understand the meaning of this aphorism, it is important to consider the historical context of Paine's writings during the American Revolutionary War. Paine was advocating for the colonists' independence from British rule and urging them to endure the sacrifices necessary for victory.
In this context, the aphorism suggests that if a victory is achieved without a significant amount of effort or sacrifice, the people may not fully recognize or understand the value of what they have obtained. Paine argues that in order to truly appreciate the outcome and ensure it is respected, it is necessary to be willing to sacrifice everything that is considered cheap or easily attainable.
By sacrificing what is inexpensive or easily given up, such as comfort, safety, or material possessions, the people demonstrate their determination and commitment to the cause. In doing so, they not only gain the respect of their enemies but also develop a deeper appreciation for the hard-won victory.
In summary, the meaning of this aphorism is that if something is obtained too easily or at a low cost, it is often undervalued. To earn respect and appreciation, especially in the context of war or struggle, it is necessary to sacrifice what is considered inexpensive or easy to obtain.