... the equality of individuals, opened the way to free criticism of government and the right to revolution, ideas that Hobbes himself opposed. An influential early liberal was the English philosopher John Locke. In his political writings, which deeply influenced the framers of the U.S. Constitution, he argued for popular sovereignty, the right of rebellion against oppression, and toleration of religious minorities. ... According to the thought of Locke and his many followers, the state exists not to promote people's spiritual salvation, but to serve its citizens and to guarantee their life,...

• Word Count: 788
• Approx Pages: 3
• Grade Level: Graduate

... towards freedom among all. Beneath the genius innovations that encircled society laid the unmatched philosophy produced from the glorious mind of John Locke. He expanded his ideas regarding government across the nation and bewildered many with the concept of natural rights. John Locke insisted that the sole responsibilities of a government include protecting the life, liberty, and property of its people; a belief that struck the ... ...

• Word Count: 1600
• Approx Pages: 6
• Grade Level: Graduate

... Madison's opinion, independent. To assure such independence, no one branch should have too much power in selecting members of the other two branches. In his Second Treatise of Civil Government, John Locke stated that "it is not without reason the [man] seeks out and is willing to join in society with others who are already united, or have a mind to unite for ... , and estates, which I call by the general name - property." It was by these basic principles that laid the essential framework for our constitution. Based upon the fundamental ideals described by Locke and Madison, Charles Beard...

• Word Count: 329
• Approx Pages: 1
• Grade Level: Graduate