“Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness”: this is quite possibly the most recognizable phrase from Declaration of Independence. While it was our third president who actually penned that phrase, it was Englishman John Locke who was the mastermind behind this idea. Locke was a normal, everyday man who turned out to be one of the most influential political philosophers in history (Tuckness). Locke’s theories on the rights of the people have had an immense influence on our government system today and other political references that have shaped the United States immeasurably.
John Locke is known not only for the idea behind his famous idea from the Declaration of Independence, but also for his opinions on the rights and liberties of the American people. His theories include those of inalienable rights, natural rights, and social contracts (Costly). He believed in certain prerogatives people have --natural rights--that are composed of “a foundation independent of the laws of any particular society,” which is protected by the concept of inalienable rights (Tuckness). Locke also believed in a social contract that relied on consent to protect the people. In return for protection, the people would surrender themselves and submit to the authority of the government to ensure the protection of their natural …show more content…
Of course, most of John Locke’s own work at least mentioned his approval for his theories. The idea of “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness” is also showcased in the Declaration of Independence. Finally, schools across the nation are emphasizing the natural rights of America’s citizens, and it is always taught that these rights are not to be infringed upon by the government. Locke’s ideas have been used throughout our nation’s history, and that is why he is so influential and important to our
John Locke is known not only for the idea behind his famous idea from the Declaration of Independence, but also for his opinions on the rights and liberties of the American people. His theories include those of inalienable rights, natural rights, and social contracts (Costly). He believed in certain prerogatives people have --natural rights--that are composed of “a foundation independent of the laws of any particular society,” which is protected by the concept of inalienable rights (Tuckness). Locke also believed in a social contract that relied on consent to protect the people. In return for protection, the people would surrender themselves and submit to the authority of the government to ensure the protection of their natural …show more content…
Of course, most of John Locke’s own work at least mentioned his approval for his theories. The idea of “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness” is also showcased in the Declaration of Independence. Finally, schools across the nation are emphasizing the natural rights of America’s citizens, and it is always taught that these rights are not to be infringed upon by the government. Locke’s ideas have been used throughout our nation’s history, and that is why he is so influential and important to our