Enlightenment Thinkers and Ideas

Which philosopher is associated with the idea of natural rights (life, liberty, and property)?

• Thomas Hobbes

• John Locke

• Jean-Jacques Rousseau

• Montesquieu

Answer explanation

John Locke believed everyone is born with rights like life, liberty, and property, and governments must protect them. If not, people can change their government.

What Enlightenment principle did Montesquieu advocate for?

• Absolute monarchy

• Social contract

• Separation of powers

• Natural rights

Answer explanation

Montesquieu believed splitting government into three branches—legislative, executive, and judicial—would prevent one group or person from having too much power. This system keeps things fair and stops tyranny.

Match each idea to the correct Enlightenment thinker.

• Thomas Hobbes

• Separation of powers prevents tyranny

• John Locke

• Social contract challenges divine right

• Jean-Jacques Rousseau

• Government should be based on consent of the governed

• Montesquieu

• Human beings are inherently good

"Man is born free, and everywhere he is in chains." – Jean-Jacques Rousseau. Based on this quote, what is Rousseau criticizing?

• Absolute monarchy

• Democracy

• Social equality

• Capitalism

Answer explanation

Rousseau is criticizing how unfair governments take away people's natural freedom. He believed governments should protect people's rights, not control them.

How did Enlightenment ideas challenge traditional governments?

• By reinforcing the divine right of kings

• By emphasizing equality and individual rights

• By supporting absolute monarchies

• By discouraging social reform

Answer explanation

Enlightenment thinkers believed in ideas like natural rights, equality, and fair government. These ideas opposed traditional monarchies, where kings had absolute power, and encouraged systems that respected people's rights.