The instant formal government is abolished, society begins to act. A general association takes place, and common interest produces common security.

The quote by Thomas Paine, a prominent political thinker and one of the Founding Fathers of the United States, reflects his belief in the natural ability of people to form cooperative societies without the need for a formal government. By saying, "The instant formal government is abolished, society begins to act," Paine argues that once the structures of government are removed, people will naturally begin to organize themselves based on common interests and mutual goals. According to Paine, this process of self-organization happens almost immediately, without the need for an overarching authority.

Paine suggests that the foundation of a functioning society is not reliant on government but on the associations and relationships people form based on shared needs and goals. "A general association takes place," meaning that when individuals no longer feel the need for a governing body, they will come together to work cooperatively, driven by the common good. Paine believed that people are inherently capable of coming together and establishing systems of security and support without the need for centralized control.

The quote also emphasizes the idea that common interest is the basis of common security. Paine believed that when individuals recognize shared needs and goals, they will naturally protect each other and work to create a safe and stable environment. This idea is in line with Paine's broader philosophy, which often criticized traditional power structures and advocated for a more egalitarian approach to governance and society.

Ultimately, Paine’s quote speaks to his optimism about human nature and the potential for individuals to self-organize and protect one another. It reflects his belief in the strength of community and voluntary association, challenging the notion that government is necessary to ensure order and security in society. Instead, Paine suggests that freedom and cooperation can naturally emerge when individuals are not constrained by the formalities of government.