In Paine's Common Sense, which concept is described as the Mirror Theory equating representation with democracy?

In Paine's Common Sense, which concept is described as the Mirror Theory equating representation with democracy?

• A. Consent of the governed
• B. Mirror Theory = representative democracy
• C. Natural rights
• D. The large republic argument

Answer: (B)

The Mirror Theory is the idea that democracy is realized through representation—elected representatives who faithfully reflect the will, interests, and rights of the people. In Common Sense, Paine treats sovereignty as residing in the people and argues that government gains legitimacy when it acts as a mirror of the public’s preferences. Rather than direct rule by everyone, democracy exists because those chosen to represent the people serve as their voices, aligning laws and policies with the public’s will. That connection—representation as the vehicle through which popular sovereignty is expressed—is why this concept fits best. The other options describe related ideas (legitimacy from the people, inherent rights, or a distinct argument about large republics) but do not capture Paine’s specific claim that representation itself is the essential form of democracy.

The Mirror Theory is the idea that democracy is realized through representation—elected representatives who faithfully reflect the will, interests, and rights of the people. In Common Sense, Paine treats sovereignty as residing in the people and argues that government gains legitimacy when it acts as a mirror of the public’s preferences. Rather than direct rule by everyone, democracy exists because those chosen to represent the people serve as their voices, aligning laws and policies with the public’s will. That connection—representation as the vehicle through which popular sovereignty is expressed—is why this concept fits best. The other options describe related ideas (legitimacy from the people, inherent rights, or a distinct argument about large republics) but do not capture Paine’s specific claim that representation itself is the essential form of democracy.