However, it is important to note that Paine himself did not write this exact quote. It is a paraphrasing of his ideas, and likely originated from a later commentator or historian.
In his "Common Sense" (1776), Paine wrote:
> "Society is produced by our wants, and government by our wickedness; the former promotes our happiness POSITIVELY by uniting our affections, the latter NEGATIVELY by restraining our vices."
While not identical, this passage reflects the same sentiment of government being a necessary evil to restrain individual vices, but ultimately serving a function of society.
Therefore, while the quote is not a direct quote from Paine, it accurately captures his perspective on government and individual freedom.