1. Political Philosophers

2. The Enlightenment a cultural movement of intellectuals in 18th century Europe and the American colonies. Its purpose was to reform society using reason (rather than tradition, faith and revelation) and advance knowledge through science. It promoted science and intellectual interchange and opposed superstition, [1] intolerance and abuses by church and state. [1]

3. What were the thinkers of this period called? Philosophers

4. Why Philosophers? Economic changes Political changes Living conditions Corrupt monarchies

5. Thomas Hobbes Originated the Social Contract theory People have rights that they can voluntarily give to government in exchange for certain services.

6. John Locke Two Treatises on Government 1690

7. Influenced: Benjamin Franklin Thomas Jefferson James Madison John Locke

8. Natural Law provides right to –Life –Liberty –Property People “contract” among themselves to form governments to protect their natural rights. John Locke

9. If a government fails to protect the natural rights of the people, the people have the right to break the “contract” with the government. (i.e., change the government) Government is legitimate only as long as the people consent to it. John Locke

10. If a government fails to protect the natural rights of the people, the people have the right to break the “contract” with the government. (i.e., change the government) Government is legitimate only as long as the people consent to it. John Locke

11. Charles de Montesquieu People will abuse power if not “checked.” Separation of Power provides “checks and balances.” Executive Judicial Legislativ e