1. Enlightenment Thinkers

2. Philosophers:
Tried to apply the principles of scientific investigation to human nature/gov’t
These were smart, talented guys who wanted to increase their social standing
Goal was to limit elite/ aristocratic society
HOWEVER, did not want to share political rights with women, children, peasants, laborers, slaves, or colored people

3. Thomas Hobbes (1588-1679) Nature of society– all men are bad
men must give up some personal freedom in order to have a peaceful society with a strong ruler

4. John Locke ( )

6. Popular Sovereignty
Rulers derived their authority from the consent of those whom they governed
man has the right to overthrow a ruler who does not protect those rights
Locke changed the idea of sovereignty
Does not come from rulers
Instead comes from THE PEOPLE
OTHER BIG IDEA
Natural rights to life, liberty & property

7. Locke’s Blank Slate Theory
Individuals are born without built-in knowledge
knowledge comes from experience and perception.

9. Voltaire ( )

10. Individual Freedom
Religious tolerance
Freedom of speech

11. Jean-Jacques Rousseau (1712-1778)

12. Political & Legal Equality
Noble Savage – men were born good, society messed them up.
Wanted to reform EDUCATION (universal)
Social Contract
Ideal society = all individuals would participate daily in creating the laws
General will of the people

13. Montesquieu ( )

14. Separation of Government
Separation of governmental powers
Checks and balances