Foundations of Government - Rousseau and Montesquieu

Question 1

Jean Rousseau (1712-1778)

Answer 1

• ROUSSEAU = Humans good by nature but society and government corrupt them. Man can only progress if government protects their natural rights

Question 2

Charles Montesquieu (1689-1755)

Answer 2

• Checks and Balances
• Legislative Branch = Makes the laws
• Executive Branch = Enforces the laws
• Judicial Branch = Interprets the laws
• The People = Must stay knowledgeable on government issues and participate in government
• His writings, along with Locke, inspired James Madison in creating the US Constitution