Enlightenment Philosophers and Political Thought

Vocabulary flashcards covering major Enlightenment philosophers, their key political principles, dates, and primary written works.

John Locke (1632-1704)

Thinker known as the "Father of Liberalism" who advocated natural rights (life, liberty, property), limited government, consent of the governed, separation of church and state, and the right to revolt against tyranny.

Two Treatises of Government (1689)

A major work by John Locke presenting political philosophy centered on natural rights and the social contract.

An Essay Concerning Human Understanding (1689)

A foundational philosophical work written by John Locke in 1689.

Baron de Montesquieu (1689-1755)

French political philosopher who shaped liberal constitutional thought by advocating the separation of powers and checks and balances to prevent tyranny.

Separation of Powers

Montesquieu's constitutional concept dividing government authority into legislative, executive, and judicial branches.

John Stuart Mill (1806-1873)

Philosopher who expanded liberalism to include individual freedom, social reform, women's rights, and expanded suffrage while balancing utilitarianism with individual rights.

Harm Principle

John Stuart Mill's principle stating that individuals should be free to act as they wish unless their actions cause harm to others.

On Liberty (1859)

Work by John Stuart Mill that advocates liberty of thought and expression, including free speech.

Utilitarianism (1861)

Work by John Stuart Mill addressing the greatest happiness principle in balance with individual rights.

Jean-Jacques Rousseau (1712-1778)

Thinker who influenced liberal and democratic thought, advocating popular sovereignty, general will, direct democracy, and civic participation.

General Will

Rousseau's concept of majority rule as the primary source of legitimate authority in a state.

The Social Contract (1762)

A key political work written by Jean-Jacques Rousseau outlining popular sovereignty and political legitimate authority.

Voltaire (1694-1778)

Defender of civil liberties and religious freedom who criticized absolute monarchy and the Catholic Church, promoted rationalism, and favored governance by an enlightened despot.

Enlightened Despot

An authoritarian ruler who uses power rationally and tolerantly, favored by Voltaire for government administration.

Candide (1759)

A major work written by Voltaire in 1759.

Letters Concerning the English Nation (1733)

A work written by Voltaire in 1733 discussing English governance and liberties.