Questions and Answers
What did John Locke believe about natural rights?
Natural rights do not come from the government.
What action could be considered an acceptance of the social contract?
Driving on the highway.
According to Baron de Montesquieu, what is lost if one person has too much power?
Freedom.
What did Enlightenment philosophers believe could answer questions and solve problems?
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How did Hobbes's views on human nature differ from Locke's?
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What natural rights did John Locke argue all humans are born with?
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Under what circumstances did John Locke believe it was acceptable for people to overthrow the government?
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What concept did John Locke help develop between citizens and the government?
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Why did Montesquieu advocate the separation of powers?
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How did John Locke view humans?
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Study Notes
John Locke and Natural Rights
- John Locke posited that natural rights are inherent and not granted by the government.
- He identified life, liberty, and property as fundamental rights.
- Locke believed that every individual is born reasonable and capable of rational thought.
Social Contract
- The concept of the social contract involves an implicit agreement between citizens and the government regarding rights and responsibilities.
- Individuals implicitly accept the social contract by abiding by rules, such as driving on highways.
- Locke argued that citizens have the right to overthrow their government if it breaches this social contract.
Philosophers and Reason
- Enlightenment philosophers placed great faith in human reason as a tool to understand the world and resolve societal issues.
Views on Human Nature
- John Locke's perspective on human nature suggested neutrality, asserting that people are not inherently good or bad.
- In contrast, Thomas Hobbes held a more pessimistic view, believing that humans are naturally violent and self-interested.
Montesquieu and Separation of Powers
- Montesquieu advocated for the separation of powers within government to prevent any single entity or individual from accumulating excessive power.
- He posited that liberty is endangered when legislative and executive powers are held by the same entity, leading to potential tyranny.
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Description
Explore the fundamental concepts put forth by John Locke regarding natural rights, the social contract, and human nature. This quiz examines Locke's belief in life, liberty, and property, as well as the implications of the social contract between citizens and government. Test your knowledge of Enlightenment philosophy and its impact on modern political thought.
