Introduction: Hobbes and Locke Flashcards
What are the primary political works of Thomas Hobbes and John Locke?
Hobbes’ Leviathan and Locke’s Two Treatises of Government.
How did Hobbes view human nature?
Hobbes believed humans were naturally self-interested and lived in a state of war without government.
What phrase did Hobbes use to describe life in the state of nature?
“Nasty, brutish, and short.”
What type of government did Hobbes advocate for?
A strong, absolute ruler, often in the form of a monarchy, to maintain order.
How did Locke’s view of human nature differ from Hobbes’?
Locke believed people were born with natural rights and could cooperate in a state of nature.
What are the natural rights Locke believed all people have?
Life, liberty, and property.
According to Locke, why do people form governments?
To protect their natural rights and maintain order.
What did Locke believe people had the right to do if a government failed them?
Overthrow it.
How did Hobbes influence political thought?
His ideas supported absolutist regimes and discussions on state power and security.
How did Locke’s ideas influence modern democracy?
His principles inspired the American and British political systems, including the Declaration of Independence.
