Lesson 27 of 84 · Enlightenment
⭐ 30 XPenlightenment: Lesson 27
One of the most significant impacts of the Enlightenment was the rise of social contract theory, particularly articulated by John Locke and Jean-Jacques Rousseau.
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One of the most significant impacts of the Enlightenment was the rise of social contract theory, particularly articulated by John Locke and Jean-Jacques Rousseau. Locke proposed that individuals surrender some freedoms in exchange for the protection of their rights, while Rousseau emphasized the collective will of the people. This concept challenged the divine right of kings, suggesting that governments derive their authority from the will of the people. These ideas significantly influenced the American and French Revolutions, as citizens demanded a government that reflected their will and protected their rights.
Key Facts
Social contract theory questions the divine right of kings.
Jean-Jacques Rousseau emphasized the collective will of the people.
These ideas influenced both the American and French Revolutions.
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Question 1
1 of 2What does social contract theory suggest about government authority?
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