Intro to Political Science

government

the institution through which a state/country creates laws, protects itself, maintains social order, and provides public servcies

politics

the process through which individuals and groups make decisions about how to allocate resources, exercise power, and influence policies.

political science

a social science concerned chiefly with the description and analysis of political and especially governmental institutions and processes

social contract theory

individuals consent to give up some freedom and submit to the authority of a ruler of government in exchange for protection of their rights and remaining liberties

state of nature

philosophical concept used to describe the time before government existed (used to justify news)

thomas hobbes (1588-1679)

leviathan (1651)

more pessimistic view of human nature

favored absolute monarchy; believed subjects had an obligation to obey their ruler unconditionally

john locke (1632-1704)

Two Treaties of Government (1689)

more optimistic view of human nature

believe humans have natural rights; if the government fails to protect citizens, natural rights, the people are justified in replacing the government (consent of the governed)

what did TH and JL both believe

the primary purpose of the government is to provide security and order, ensuring the well-being of its citizens.

jean jaques rousseau

political philospher who is also associated with social contract theory