Philosophical Foundations of the Declaration of Independence
1 of 8
Which European intellectual movement heavily influenced the ideas in the Declaration of Independence?
The Enlightenment, a movement that emphasized reason, individualism, and human rights.
Which English philosopher's ideas on natural rights were most influential on Thomas Jefferson?
John Locke.
John Locke identified natural rights as "Life, Liberty, and Property." How did Thomas Jefferson famously adapt this phrase in the Declaration?
He wrote "Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness."
According to the Declaration, what is the source of a government's power?
It is derived "from the consent of the governed."
How is the "Social Contract" theory reflected in the Declaration?
It's the idea that people agree to be governed in exchange for protection of their rights. If the government violates this contract, the people have the right to change or remove it.
The idea that "all men are created equal" was a radical challenge to what common form of government at the time?
Monarchy, which is based on the idea of a hereditary ruling class and divine right, not equality.
According to the Declaration, when do people have the right to overthrow their government?
When the government becomes destructive of their rights and engages in a "long train of abuses and usurpations."
The Declaration states that revolution should not be for what kind of causes?
For "light and transient causes," meaning trivial or short-lived problems.
