New ideologies

Introduction The better understanding of the government. The exploration of the human nature. The role of citizens in a society. „Legitimacy of any form of government had to be justified through rational thought and not, as it had in the past, by resort to theology or tradition.”

John Locke Against absolute monarchy. He believed in legitimacy. Everyone has rights and the only requirement is being alive. Locke believed in rights that are inalienable what means no-one can take them from us and they came with nature. We are independent and equal to each other creatures. No-one can violate our: Health Liberty Life Possessions

Politics The vision of humans as reasonable and peaceful who are naturally capable to function in the best interest of society. The belief that government and governed are having mutual responsibilities and obligations. People have a right to change government in a peaceful and rebellious way.

Locke’s impact He contributed to: Democracy Modern thought The founding documents of the United States were based on his thoughts. He is considered to be the father of CLASSICAL LIBERALISM.

Thomas Hobbes The believer of absolutism. Also a believer of legitimacy. His views were developed mostly during the times of instability and destruction what had a huge impact on his views. He saw humans as destructive beasts who are fighting for survival and competition. He believes that all humans should give up their rights and rely on the absolute ruler who is supposed to give the stability in life.

State of human nature People are: Chaotic In a perpetual conflict Not anable to govern Capable to organize only when there is one ’true ruler’. Citizens cannot rebel against their government Absolutism as a solution to everything

Differences Locke Hobbes People can rebel and change their government. Against absolutism. Everyone has their rights. Saw humans as peaceful and well-organized creatures. We are all independent. There is one absolute government and no-one can rebel against it. Approves absolutism. People should give up their rights to the hands of the ruler. Saw humans as destructive creatures. We should give up our sovereignty.

Similarities The social contract – agreement by individuals to co-operate in the society. Contract theory – based on agreement between those who rule and those who are ruled. Both groups have their rights and responsibilities. Legitimacy

Voltaire – intellect of Revolution His real name was Francois-Marie Arouet. We can say that he is a ‚mix’ of Locke and Hobbes He believed (like Locke) in human ability to learn and that reason should guide all our decisions. However, he agreed with Hobbes a very low opinion of humans and their inability to govern themselves. He did not consider undereducated masses what lead to being an opponent of indiscrimate democracy. Voltaire was against Church and the Monarchy and considered that they are based on: tradition, supersition and force.

Ruler in eyes of Voltaire It does not matter who rules and how much power has if Is educated and rules according to Enlightement principles: Freedom of religion Freedom of speech Freedom of thought Progress Organized and rational policy

Rousseau – the heart of Revolution His full name was Jean Jacques Rousseau. Society is based on a social contract among all citizens. He did not want society to be ruled by kings nor governments, but by General Will. He made a huge impact on revolutionary period. His ideas lived long to the 20th century.

The General Will All the wishes of the people The collective good of the whole society that unites it It was hard to determine the General Will and who spoke for or knew it Modern liberal democracy as the most efficient method of determining the General Will according to 20th century democrats Dictators also claimed a special knowledge of the General Will

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