Topic: The Enlightenment and Natural Law: Foundations of the Declaration of Independence and our Constitution
“I have stood on the shoulders of giants” Isaac Newton
Natural law –
1. A body of unchanging universal principles regarded as a
basis for all human conduct.
2. An observable law relating to natural phenomena universally applies
everywhere.
As Isaac Newton was explaining natural law in the heavens (Laws of Gravity). People like John Locke were explaining Natural Law regarding Government (all men created equal). Adam Smith was explaining Natural Law in economics “the free hand” of the market and capitalism
The Age of Natural Law John Locke: Men are created equal. You are born with rights given to you from a creator. The job of government is to protect these rights. Governments are created by men with the consent or permission of those being governed. If a government does not protect these rights it should be overthrown.
What Rights are you born with: Life, Liberty and……. property (Locke) ……Pursuit of Happiness (Jefferson)
What if you are not born with rights but rights are granted to you by the state? (Government) If you are not born with rights and rights are given to you from a person or government rights can therefore be taken away. You are property of the state.
John Locke: (1632-1704): A Philosopher who created the idea of Natural Law in the area of Government.
John Locke also argued for separation of powers with an executive and legislative branch of government.
Thomas Jefferson drafted the Declaration of independence based on these ideas as well as George Mason’s Declaration of Rights. Thomas Jefferson built on those of others!!!
Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, Thomas Paine, Benjamin Franklin all were Enlightenment thinkers.
Voltaire: (1694-1778) – A French Philosopher who was inspired by Locke. Wrote to Catherine the Great and King Fredrick of Prussia against absolute monarchies and argued for Natural Law.
John Locke: (1632-1704): A Philosopher who created the idea of Natural Law in the area of Government.
John Locke also argued for separation of powers with an executive and legislative branch of government.
Thomas Jefferson drafted the Declaration of independence based on these ideas as well as George Mason’s Declaration of Rights. Thomas Jefferson built on those of others!!!
When asked why you could see where no man has ever seen before… Isaac Newton replied. “I have stood on the shoulders of giants.”
Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, Thomas Paine, Benjamin Franklin all were Enlightenment thinkers.