Enlightenment Influencers: Beliefs on Government and Liberty

What did John Locke believe about natural rights?

• They are granted by the government

• People are born with them

• They don't exist in a state of nature

• They can be taken away by a sovereign

According to Thomas Hobbes, why is a social contract necessary?

• To establish democracy

• To ensure equality for all

• To avoid chaos and war

• To promote economic growth

What form of government did Jean-Jacques Rousseau advocate for?

• Monarchy

• Direct democracy

• Oligarchy

• Totalitarianism

Which concept is associated with Baron de Montesquieu?

• Natural rights

• Social contract

• Separation of powers

• Absolute monarchy

How did Niccolo Machiavelli view the use of power by leaders?

• Leaders should always be honest

• Leaders should prioritize ethics over power

• The end justifies the means

• Power should be shared equally

What did William Blackstone believe was the primary role of the government?

• To control its citizens

• To preserve natural rights

• To expand its territory

• To establish a monarchy

Which Enlightenment thinker influenced the idea of checks and balances in the U.S. Constitution?

• Baron de Montesquieu

• John Locke

• Jean-Jacques Rousseau

• William Blackstone

According to the text, which influencer's ideas had the largest impact on America?

• Niccolo Machiavelli

• John Locke

• Jean-Jacques Rousseau

• William Blackstone

What did Thomas Hobbes believe about human nature?

• Humans are naturally peaceful

• Humans are naturally selfish and quick to fight

• Humans are inherently cooperative

• Humans are naturally obedient

How did Jean-Jacques Rousseau define 'social freedom'?

• Freedom to follow instincts without rules

• Freedom achieved through security and protection

• Complete freedom from government involvement

• Freedom to own property without restrictions