1. Foundations of American Government: Political Philosophers

2. PhilosopherIdea Impact on American Gov’t Thomas Hobbes (1588-1679) Social Contract: People give up some freedom to the government in exchange for order. Idea is used by writers of Declaration of Independence!

3. Political Philosophers PhilosopherIdea Impact on American Gov’t John Locke (1632-1704) State exists to preserve rights of its citizens Natural Rights: Life, liberty, and property Government must protect natural rights. If not, people have the right to change the government (Rebel) Limited Government Ideas found in the Declaration of Independence Natural rights philosophy used in Bill of Rights

4. Political Philosophers PhilosopherIdea Impact on American Gov’t Rousseau (1712-1778) Institutions of government have corrupted man. Government must be controlled by popular sovereignty (The will of the people) Man must have basic rights protected from government Bill of Rights

5. Political Philosophers PhilosopherIdea Impact on American Gov’t Voltaire (1694-1778) Civil Liberties must be protected Bill of Rights Ex: No cruel and inhuman punishment Freedom of Speach Religious tolerance

6. Political Philosophers PhilosopherIdea Impact on American Gov’t Montesquieu (1689-1755) Power of government is in checks and balances and separation of powers (3 branches) Checks and balances put into Constitution Executive, Legislative, Judicial branches