A French man who believed that human beings are naturally good, free and can rely on their instincts. Government should exist to protect common good, and be a democracy.
Jean-Jacques Rousseau
English Philosopher. 3 Ls = Life, Liberty, and Land (Property) = Natural Rights. Argues government's responsibility is to protect people's natural rights. If the gov't failure to do so, the people should overthrow their Government.
John Locke
Writing that outlines John Locke's political ideologies.
Two Treatisies of Government
French philosopher. 3 syllables = 3 branches of government. Separation of Powers. Checks and Balances.
Baron de Montesquieu
Term for 18th century European monarchs who were inspired by Enlightenment ideas to rule justly and respect the rights of subjects
Enlightened Despot
French philosopher. V = Voice (Freedom Speech). Also favored religious freedom/toleration.
Voltaire (1694-1778)
3-word term given to a system of government that allows each branch of to limit the powers of the other branches in order to prevent abuse of power
Checks and Balances
3-word term given to the division of authority among the legislative, executive, and judicial branches of government
Separation of Powers
Thomas Hobbes' writing that argues for a social contract asking people to give up rights to establish order under an absolute ruler.
Leviathan (1651)
She was an Enlightened despot who ruled Russia from 1762 to 1796, added new lands to Russia, encouraged science, art, and literature.
Catherine the Great
He viewed human beings as naturally self-centered and prone to violence. Feared the dangers of anarchy more than the dangers of tyranny. Argued that monarchs should have absolute and unlimited political authority.
Thomas Hobbes (1588-1679)
Written by Montesquieu and showed his admiration for the British system—especially the checks and balances.
The Spirit of the Laws (1748)
The time period in the 1700s during which many Europeans began to break away from tradition and rethink political and social norms
Age of Enlightenment (Age of Reason)
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