GED Social Studies TestCivics and GovernmentHard
A historian is analyzing the philosophical underpinnings of the U.S. Declaration of Independence. They note that the Declaration asserts that all individuals are born with certain 'unalienable rights,' including 'Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness.' This concept is most directly derived from the writings of which Enlightenment philosopher?
- AVoltaire
- BMontesquieu
- CJean-Jacques Rousseau
- DJohn Locke
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. John Locke
John Locke's philosophy of natural rights, particularly 'life, liberty, and property,' profoundly influenced Thomas Jefferson in drafting the Declaration of Independence. Jefferson adapted Locke's 'property' to 'the pursuit of Happiness.'
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Voltaire was a proponent of freedom of speech and religious tolerance.
- B. Montesquieu is known for his ideas on separation of powers.
- C. Rousseau focused on the social contract and general will.
John Locke's Natural Rights
The philosophical concept, articulated by John Locke, that individuals are born with inherent rights to 'life, liberty, and property,' which governments are created to protect.
- Influenced the American Declaration of Independence.
- Jefferson adapted 'property' to 'the pursuit of Happiness'.
- Central to the idea of limited government and consent of the governed.
- Enlightenment-era philosophy.
Memory trick: Locke's Rights, Montesquieu's Branches, Rousseau's Will.