2. I. Scientific Revolution Sparks the Enlightenment a. Natural law i. Rules discovered by reason help to better understand social, political, and economic issues ii. Methods from science led to enlightenment thinking

3. a. Thomas Hobbes Believes in Powerful Government i. Leviathan – wrote people were naturally cruel, greedy and selfish. ii.“Absolute Monarchy” was the best form of government to bring order (John) Calvin and (Thomas) Hobbes Depiction of Leviathan in Old Testament. Title of Hobbes’ book about greedy and cruel human nature.

4. b. Locke Advocates Natural Rights i. Optimistic view of human nature ii. Natural Rights – right to life, liberty, and property iii. Gov’t should be limited in power iv. Citizens have right to overthrow gov’t if it fails obligations

5. A. French Philosophers in the 1700’s MontesquieuVoltaireDiderotRousseau

6. i. Sharply criticized Absolute Monarchy of France ii. Spirit of Laws – discussed history of gov’ts iii. Best gov’t should have Separation of Powers 1. Legislative, executive, and judicial 2. System of “Checks and Balances”

7. i. Exposed the abuses of corrupt officials and idle aristocrats ii. Candide - his book used sarcasm to expose gov’t corruption iii. Strong advocate for Freedom of Speech iv. Imprisoned and forced into exile

8. i. Composed 28 volumed encyclopedia 1. Leading philosophe 2. Denounced slavery, praised freedom of expression and urged education for all

9. i. People were naturally good ii. Faith in the “general will” or best conscience of people iii. Corrupted by the evils of society iv. Social Contract – wrote that only gov’ts that had been freely elected could have some control over peoples behavior v. His work would help fan the flames of revolt

10. a. French thinkers focused on economic reforms

11. i. Mercantilism – requires gov’t regulation of economy ii. Laissez Faire – allows business to operate with little of no government intervention

12. i. Greatly admired the Physiocrats ii. Wealth of Nations – wrote that free market should be allowed to regulate business activity iii. Manufacturing, trade, wages, profits and economic growths all market forces linked to supply and demand iv. Gov’t DID HAVE DUTY to protect society, administer justice and provide public works