Political Philosophers Who Influenced The Founding Fathers
Book Preferred Form of Government Life in the
“State of Nature” Natural Rights Theory of Government
Thomas Hobbes 1588-1679 Leviathan Absolute Monarchy
Human behavior is built on egoism, or self-interest, which is the root of all social conflict.
Freedom, equality (can be forfeited)
“Implied Contract” People give up freedom & equality to government in exchange for order and security – must obey; no right to revolt.
John Locke 1632-1704
The Second Treatise of Civil
Government
Constitutional
Monarchy
(property owners have right to vote)
Brutal, because passions overrule man’s natural goodness
Life, Liberty, Equality, & Property
(inalienable)
“Social Contract” Government can only govern with the consent of the governed. People must agree on who their rulers will be. Government is limited. People have a right to revolt against a government.
Charles Montesquieu
1689-1775 The Spirit of Laws Republic
Timid, fearful individuals unite for strength; this strong society then tends to war on the weaker individuals & groups.
Does not deal with this concept
Function of Government is to maintain law & order, protect political liberty and individual’s property. Abuse of power by government is avoided by separation of powers and checks and balances.
David Hume 1711-1776
A Treatise of Human Nature Republic
Man is not entirely self-serving; seeks balance
Free Speech is essential
A constitution is needed to prevent bad government.
Jean-Jacques Rousseau 1712-1778
The Social Contract Direct Democracy
Man was born free, equal, and happy. Property ownership leads to inequality & violence.
Liberty, equality – property is a fraud on the poor by the rich.
“Social Contract” Government is the instrument for carrying out the people’s laws – the people are sovereign, the government is not. Laws are arrived at by direct debate and vote, majority rules, and full citizen participation is critical.
Which philosophers contributed to the thoughts and writings of Thomas Jefferson?
Do you see any particular evidence that suggests Jefferson use some of the same material and thoughts from the philosophers?
What is the difference between a Social Contract and an Implied Contract?
Which of the statements refer to citizens and their voting rights?
