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Thomas Hobbes England

Thomas Hobbes England. Major Work The Leviathan (1651) Theories Human life in original state of nature—i.e. Without government—was “solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short.” Unable to rule themselves, men voluntarily surrendered their freedom to a ruler.

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Thomas Hobbes England

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  1. Thomas HobbesEngland Major Work The Leviathan (1651) Theories Human life in original state of nature—i.e. Without government—was “solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short.” Unable to rule themselves, men voluntarily surrendered their freedom to a ruler. Ruler was obligated to use absolute power to maintain order. Subjects were obligated to accept his authority. Analysis Pessimistic view. Only alternative to anarchy was absolute monarchy.

  2. John LockeEngland Major Work Two Treatises of Government (1690) Theories “Being all equal and independent, no one ought to harm another in his life, health, liberty, or property.” Men should have freedom to revolt against any tyranny or restriction on their natural rights. All ideas are derived from experience. Right to religious, intellectual freedom. Analysis Optimistic view. Logic, reason suggest people justified in changes of ruler, government.

  3. Jean Jacques RousseauSwiss Major Work The Social Contract (1762) Theories Man in his natural state was perfect, but civilization had corrupted him. Looked to nature to discover truths concerning the nature of man. “Man is born free, but everywhere he is in chains.” Ideal government one in which the people make the laws. People could deny king his right to rule or remove him if he ruled badly.

  4. MontesquieuFrance Major Work Spirit of Laws (1748) Theories “Power should be a check to power.” Separation of powers would keep any group or individual from gaining too much control over the government. Believed Britain was the best governed and politically balanced country of the time.

  5. VoltaireFrance Major Work Candide (1759) Theories “I do not agree with a word you say but will defend to the death your right to say it.” (attributed) Advocated freedom of religious belief and freedom of speech. Used satire to combat intolerance, superstition, and prejudice.

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