"Reason obeys itself; and ignorance submits to whatever is dictated to it"

This quote by Thomas Paine talks to the power of reason and the constraints of lack of knowledge. Reason is an effective tool that can be utilized to make choices and form opinions. It is based upon truths and logic, and when used correctly, it can lead to sound conclusions. On the other hand, lack of knowledge is the lack of knowledge or understanding. It is not based upon realities or logic, and it can lead to misguided decisions and viewpoints. Paine is suggesting that factor needs to be utilized to make choices, while lack of knowledge needs to be prevented. He is suggesting that when reason is utilized, it will cause the right conclusions, while ignorance will result in whatever is dictated to it. Simply put, reason is the essential to making sound choices, while lack of knowledge can lead to misdirected conclusions.