Aim: How do we examine the purpose of government? HW: Second treatise on Government. Reminder: Quiz – Friday

Lesson Objectives Identify the four theories that attempt to explain the origin of the state. Understand the purpose of government in the United States.

The Force Theory State born by force. One person or small group of persons claimed control over an area and forced all to submit to their rule. Once rule was established the basic elements of the state – population, territory, sovereignty and government – were present.

Evolutionary Theory State developed naturally out of the early family. “head” of family became the ruler and thus the government. Family – clan – tribe. The state was formed when the tribe tied itself to land by giving up its nomadic ways to develop a specific area of land – agriculture.

The Divine Right Theory God created the state and God had given those of “royal birth” a divine right to rule. Widely accepted in much of the Western World. Opposition to divine ruler was both treason and mortal sin. 17th Century philosophers questioned this theory.

Social Contract Developed by Hobbes, Locke and Rousseau State arose out of a voluntary act of free people. People agreed to give up to the state as much power as was needed to promote the safety and well-being of all. State exists to serve the will of the people Popular sovereignty, limited government and individual rights emerged from this theory.

What is the purpose of government? 1. Form a more perfect Union 2. Establish Justice 3. Insure Domestic Tranquility 4. Provide for the Common Defense 5. Promote the General Welfare 6. Secure the Blessings of Liberty.

Second Treatise on Government According to Locke, what freedoms did the people have before the founding of governments? What are the dangers of a person living in perfect freedom? How are governments formed? What trade off occurs when people live under governments.

Activity If John Locke had a Twitter account. Imagine that John Locke wants to tweet his ideas for a second treatise to a few of his buddies. What do you think he would say. In the space provided tweet the main ideas of Locke’s treatise. Your response should be as close to an actually tweet as possible and should not exceed 140 characters.

Homework Read pages 18 – 22