1. Philosophy and Philosophers
The Reworking of Truths

2. 17th and 18th Century
New paradigms emerge challenging the existing order of society
In societies paradigms define the concept of equality, hierarchy, freedom and order

3. Thomas Hobbes (1588-1679) Monarchy is the best form of gov’t
Peace is a better way of life
Peace can only be achieved if people give up the right to govern themselves
People must promise complete obedience in return for order and security
Society choses either absolute power or complete anarchy
Beginning of modern social contract theory
Main work: The Leviathan

5. Enlightenment – John Locke (1632-1704)
The purpose of government is to protect the “natural rights of life, liberty and property”
Citizens have the right to rebel
Human development is determined by education
(humans are born as a blank slate with unlimited potential)
Known as the father of Liberalism
Argued for the separation of Church and State

7. Charles Montesquieu (1689-1755)
Wrote the “Spirit of the Laws”
Focused on the conditions that promote liberty and prevent tyranny
Believed power checks power
Different areas check each other
Strong upper class could prevent abuse

9. Voltaire (1694-1778) Most famous of the philosophers
The best humanity could hope for was a good monarch
Did not believe in social equality
Men > women

11. Jean Jacques Rousseau (1712-1778)
Committed to individual freedoms
Very emotional in his attacks against the evils of society and government
Believed in the “natural state of man”
Man is inherently good
it is society that has corrupted him

13. Critical Question
Voltaire once said that he would rather “obey a fine lion much stronger than himself than 200 rats of his own species”.
Do you agree or disagree with this statement.
Explain your answer.