Political Philosophy: Hobbes and Locke Civics CP Political Philosophy: Hobbes and Locke

Niccolo Machiavelli (1469-1527) Italian historian and philosopher. Best known work Il Principe (The Prince) In order to keep social and political stability, a new prince must be willing to exercise brute force, deceit — to act immorally if need be — to maintain control. Realist v. Utopian

Thomas Hobbes (1588-1679) English philosopher. Concerned with how human beings can live together in peace and avoid the danger and fear of civil conflict. Best way to do so is with strong leader. Lived in France from 1640-1651; feared backlash against his political philosophy during the English Civil Wars.

~Charles I Execution in 1649

Hobbes Summary Give obedience to unaccountable sovereign or perish. Important questions: Who determines the “rights” of human beings? Who will enforce those “rights”? When religious authority is questioned or is absent, what is the glue that upholds morality in society?

~Leviathan, 1661

Galileo Galilei (1564-1642) Italian physicist, mathematician, astronomer and philosopher. Went against the church with heliocentric (sun-centered) model of the universe. Improved the telescope; altered human’s view of the heavens and their place in the universe. Reflection of the “enlightened” spirit that led to the questioning of human relationships, especially as it relates to monarchical power.

John Locke (1632-1704) English philosopher. We are born with natural rights (life, liberty, property). Wrote Two Treatises of Government.

Social Contract Human nature is characterized by reason and tolerance. In a natural state, all people were equal and independent, until the introduction of currency. Revolution is a right; government is established to protect property and guard ‘natural rights’. Government is meant to solve conflicts in a civil manner. Property is derived from man’s labor.

State of Nature Locke: In a state of nature man mostly keeps their promises and honors their obligations. Man is inherently good. Hobbes: In a state of nature “man is solitary, nasty, poor, and brutish”

Knowledge of Natural Law Locke: Humans know right from wrong, and are capable of knowing what is lawful well enough to resolve conflict Hobbes: In a state of nature man is inherently violent.

Conflict Locke: We can live together in peace and refrain from molesting each other’s property. Hobbes: Man can live in peace by subjection to absolute power of a common master.

Violation of the Social Contract Locke: If a ruler is unjust his subjects have a right and duty to rebel, using violence if necessary. Hobbes: There is no right to rebel against authority.

Are there any aspects of your daily lives that you feel are “unjust” but carry them out anyway because they are the law? Yes No

What is the role of government? To stay out of individuals’ lives and allow free-market ideas and decisions to decide laws. To enact laws and legislation to provide an equal playing field and regulate perceived wrongdoings where necessary.

Should a free public education be a part of the “social contract?” Yes No Other

Should there be a social safety net controlled by the federal government that all citizens pay into? (Social Security) Yes No

Should building a strong military be an important priority in ensuring the public’s safety? Yes no

Should all human beings within the boundaries of the United States be guaranteed health care coverage for any given condition? Yes No

What does a citizen owe its government? To obey all laws, even if they fundamentally disagree with them. To only obey laws a citizen believes are just.

Whose philosophy do you ultimately agree with? Hobbes Locke