Philosophy of Voltaire ( real name: Francois-Marie Arolet) Political Philosophers Philosophy of Voltaire ( real name: Francois-Marie Arolet)  1694-1778  Strongly believed in Freedom of Religion and Speech “I disapprove of what you say but will defend to the death your right to say it”  Relate the importance of this philosophy to the success of a democracy.

Philosophy of Jean-Jacques Rousseau “Man was born free, and he is everywhere in chains.”  1712 - 1778  Believed that Man was basically good but was corrupted by society.  Believed arts and sciences corrupted natural goodness civilized people noble savages unhappy in harmony with nature insecure happier selfish less selfish and greedy --accepted intuition rather than scientific evidence ---let children enjoy youth - study later when they want to --Also believed in the Social Contract. society formed by social contract with others in the community rather than with the government

Philosophy of Baron de Montesquieu Political Philosophers “Checks and Balances”  1689 - 1775  Major theory - that government should be divided into “three separate branches”, each coming to power in a separate manner and each having a check on the power of the other two. Relate to American Government.

Thomas Jefferson was greatly influenced by John Locke's theory of natural rights, as it justified their rebellion. April 13, 1743 N.S. – July 4, 1826 The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants. When the people fear the government, there is tyranny. When the government fears the people, there is liberty