Which Enlightenment philosopher's ideas influenced the Declaration of Independence?

• A. Jean-Jacques Rousseau
• B. Voltaire
• C. John Locke
• D. Thomas Hobbes

Answer: (C)

John Locke's ideas significantly influenced the Declaration of Independence, particularly regarding government and individual rights. Locke argued that people possess natural rights to life, liberty, and property, which should be protected by the government. He emphasized the concept of social contract theory, asserting that governments derive their authority from the consent of the governed and that citizens have the right to overthrow governments that fail to protect their rights.

These principles are evident in the Declaration of Independence, where Thomas Jefferson articulates the idea that all men are created equal and that they are endowed with certain unalienable rights, including life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Locke's ideas provided a philosophical foundation for the colonists' argument for independence from Britain, as they sought to establish a government that respected these rights and operated with the consent of the people.

In contrast, while Rousseau, Voltaire, and Hobbes made significant contributions to political philosophy, their ideas did not have the same direct impact on the principles outlined in the Declaration of Independence. Rousseau focused on the general will and collective sovereignty, Voltaire championed civil liberties and separation of church and state, and Hobbes had a more pessimistic view of human nature that supported strong authoritarian rule. As a result, Locke stands out