Enlightenment Philosophers
Thomas Hobbes English Philosopher Author of Leviathan Believed man was by nature selfish Believed in Absolute Monarchy Developed theory of social contract
John Locke English Philosopher Wrote Two Treatises of Government People are equal. Natural rights of life, liberty, property His ideas are used Declaration of Independence
Mary Wollstonecraft English Wrote: Vindication of the Rights of Women Men & women are equal. Women should vote; they will protect the common good. Feminism Started the women’s movement.
Montesquieu French Philosopher Wrote Spirit of Laws Man is intolerant Elected Government U. S. Constitution based on his ideas of sharing power: Checks & Balances
Jean-Jacques Rousseau French philosopher Author of The Social Contract Believed man was corrupted by society Believed government had became powerful through knowledge, which crushed individual liberty. Theories: noble savage Liberty, equality, fraternity
Voltaire French Philosopher Wrote Candide People are equal but barbaric Against Absolutism Theory: Only through free speech can injustice be stopped.