Philosophers of the Enlightenment

Hobbes

• Definition: English philosopher who argued for absolute monarchy to avoid natural human chaos. He proposed a social contract where people surrender rights to a ruler for safety and order.

Locke

• Definition: English philosopher who believed in natural rights (life, liberty, property) and limited government. He supported the right of rebellion against abusive rulers and advocated for people's participation in government.

Montesquieu

• Definition: French philosopher who advocated for separation of powers in government. He proposed three branches—legislative, executive, and judicial—with checks and balances to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful.

Voltaire

• Definition: French philosopher who promoted religious tolerance and freedom of thought. He envisioned an enlightened monarch who protects people's natural rights and governs without oppression.

Rousseau

• Definition: French philosopher who believed in social contract theory where individuals surrender some freedom for the common good. He argued for equality among all people and direct democracy based on the will of the majority.