Political Philosophers and Democratic Ideals (Video Notes)

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms from the lecture on political philosophers (Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, Montesquieu) and democratic principles (federalism, representation, checks and balances, separation of powers, etc.).

Hobbesian Form of Government

An absolute sovereign holds centralized, unlimited power to maintain peace and prevent the state of nature; authority arises from a social contract in which people surrender their rights.

Hobbes Social Contract

People relinquish natural rights to a powerful sovereign to secure order and safety; sovereign's authority is not bound by consent and is not typically subject to revolt.

Locke Form of Government

A limited government based on the consent of the governed, whose purpose is to protect natural rights.

Locke Natural Rights

Life, liberty, and property are inherent rights not granted by government; government should protect them.

Locke Consent of the Governed

Governing authority comes from the consent of the people; political power is limited by the people’s rights.

Rousseau Social Contract

Free and equal people form a single body politic by agreeing to the general will for the common good.

Rousseau General Will

The collective will of the people aimed at the common good; sovereignty resides in the people and laws reflect the general will.

Montesquieu Separation of Powers

Government powers are divided among legislative, executive, and judicial branches to prevent tyranny.

Montesquieu Checks and Balances

Each branch can limit the powers of the others, providing mutual oversight and protecting liberty.

Limited Government

Restrictions on government to protect natural rights; endorsed by Locke and Montesquieu.

Natural Rights

Inherent rights of all humans (life, liberty, and property) that government should safeguard.

Popular Sovereignty

The people are the ultimate source of political authority; government derives power from the governed.

Republicanism

Government authority comes from the people; leaders are elected to govern for the public good under law.

Federalism

Division of power between national and subnational (state) governments.

Representation

Government authority exercised through elected representatives who act on behalf of the people.