Political Theory Exam Summary Questions for John Locke, John Stuart Mill, and Jean-Jacques Rousseau

What are the natural rights according to John Locke?

Life, liberty, and property.

What is the primary purpose of government according to John Locke?

To act as a neutral judge that protects pre-existing rights.

What happens if the government fails to protect citizens' rights according to Locke?

Citizens have a legitimate right to revolt.

What is the focus of Locke's 'Second Treatise on Government'?

Natural rights, the social contract, and limited government.

What does Locke argue in 'A Letter Concerning Toleration'?

The state has no jurisdiction over the salvation of souls and must tolerate diverse religious expressions.

What is the 'Harm Principle' proposed by John Stuart Mill?

Individuals should be free to act as they choose as long as their actions do not harm others.

What is the main focus of Mill's work 'On Liberty'?

The balance between individual liberty and state/social control.

What distinguishes higher intellectual pleasures from lower physical ones in Mill's 'Utilitarianism'?

Actions are right if they promote the greatest happiness.

What does Jean-Jacques Rousseau believe about modern society and private property?

They create inequality and chains.

What is the purpose of government according to Rousseau?

To allow citizens to reclaim their freedom by submitting to the 'General Will' for the common good.

What is the focus of Rousseau's 'Second Discourse on Inequality'?

The state of nature and the origins of modern civilization.

How does Rousseau view the impact of private property on humanity?

It institutionalizes inequality and chains, corrupting humanity.

What is the concept of 'General Will' in Rousseau's philosophy?

True freedom is obeying the 'General Will' for the common good.

What does Rousseau argue about political legitimacy in 'The Social Contract'?

A legitimate state is formed when citizens alienate their individual rights to the whole community.

What does Rousseau mean by humans being 'born free but trapped by corrupt institutions'?

Humans are inherently free but societal structures limit their freedom.

What is the key takeaway from Mill's 'Utilitarianism'?

Morality is based on actions that promote the greatest happiness.

How does Locke's view on religious freedom differ from his views on atheists and Catholics?

Locke excluded atheists and Catholics due to concerns about political loyalty.

What does Rousseau suggest about the state of nature?

In the state of nature, humans were peaceful, self-sufficient, and compassionate.

What is the relationship between individual liberty and societal rules according to Mill?

Societal rules exist to prevent individuals from harming one another.