Philosophy and Foundation of Government

Hobbes: Hobbes believes that the "state of nature" was that everyone was created equal. However, because of this he believes that the people must put their equality aside and allow for there to be one higher power. This higher power being a monarchy was was Hobbes believed to be the best option because a King would have more purposeful and consistent rule.

Locke: Locke agree with Hobbes that to ensure peace in a society you must follow the social contract. However, Locke disagree with Hobbes in two other major ways. Locke believed that life, liberty, and property were inalienable rights that could not be given away or taken. He also disagreed that the King would have absolute power because the individual rights of humans would not allow for him to have complete power. Instead, his role would be more to enforce and protect laws. Because of this, Locke favored a representative government. However, he believed only adult male property owners were fit to vote in the government.

Rousseau: Rousseau believes that people are free and equal. He disagreed with Hobbes' idea of an absolute power and thought each individual should have equal rights in the government. This would be an absolute democracy. When allowing all members to have a part in government it is within their hands to monitor and offset each other.

These philosophers touch on the importance of power, legitimacy, and interdependence. Each philosopher had their own ideas about whether governments or people had more power and in what ways those can be good or harmful. Legitimacy of the government is also an important aspect because a person must believe their government to be legitimate to abide by their rules. As far as interdependence, it is clear that there is interdependence between people in a society and that helps build the foundation for a healthy peaceful society.

I do not necessarily agree with all aspects of these philosophers ideas. I do agree with Locke, that having a single power is not the best due to each individuals power that takes away from the Kings legitimacy. However, I disagreed with his beliefs about the importance of propter ownership and only giving the right to vote to men. If I were to create a government it would be a representative government that is much more inclusive so that people of all genders, races, and ethnicities feel that they are represented and there for find it legitimate.

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