1. The Enlightenment: Hobbes & Locke
What are the major differences between Hobbes & Locke?

2. Thomas Hobbes An Age of Reason
Prior to 1600s the world saw absolute rule, conquest & slavery
1600s: people’s thinking began to change. This is known as the Enlightenment, which emphasized reason & power of individual
Thomas Hobbes
, born in England
Believed in a Social Contract between people & ruler
Wrote Leviathan (1651)
Influence: secularism

3. Hobbes concluded that religion & divine right were the cause of conflict and that people were naturally selfish and wicked
Hobbes felt people need a secular government with a strong ruler whose authority comes from the people, not divine right
Hobbes’ Social Contract states the people will exchange some of their rights to receive protection from the ruler
Reflect/Discuss: Why do you agree or disagree with Hobbes’ social contract?
John Locke
, born in England
Believed in Natural Rights
Wrote Two Treatises of Government
Influences: Revolutions in Europe & Americas

4. Locke criticized absolutism & stated that in the “state of nature” people would come together and form a self-govt
He argues that people are born free & equal with three natural rights: life, liberty, & property
In Locke’s social contract, govt exists to protect these rights, if not the people must replace the govt
Locke’s ideas influenced the Dec. of Independence in America & other countries who revolt against their govts
Reflect/Discuss: Which social contract do you agree with Locke or Hobbes and why?