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Hobbes Publishes "Leviathan"
In 1651 Hobbes published the book titled, "The Leviathan". This was one of, if not the first book to question and take opinion on human nature. Hobbes argues that the "commonwealth" should have absolute power meaning everything is for the good of the group. The "Leviathan" stated that the political body works similar to the human body with many parts that function differently but come together as a unit. Many modern govts. have roots from this philosophy despite being produced so long ago. -
Locke's Two Treatises on Government
Locke wrote two treatises on government in attempt to modernize the ideas each group has. This attempt worked as Locke first spoke on eliminating patriarchalism because of the danger in total power. Locke also talked about natural rights and the social contract. Many of his ideas influenced the writing of the Declaration of Independence and other important American documents. -
Montesquieu's The Spirit of the Laws
Montesquieu , much like many of the other philosophers, looked to improve government by making it fair for everyone. He was the the Honest Abe of the 18th century because he looked to rid the world of slavery. Montesquieu favored a constitutional system of government and separation of powers throughout government. He would have been very pleased with America's system of checks and balances. -
Rousseau Publishes "The Social Contract, Emile"
Rousseau responded to Hobbes "Leviathan" by writing his own treatises titled "The Social Contract, Emile" . Rousseau's work spoke on the topic of basic human nature as well as talked much about education. The book was loved by many but also hated by many. It inspire new national education following the French Revolution. It also on the negative side of things, was banned in places like Geneva because of a controversial section titled "Profession of Faith of the Savoyard Vicar". -
Breccaria on Crime and Punishment
Breccaria's "On Crime and Punishment" inspired many important ideas including the concept of cruel and unusual punishment. Caesare Breccaria was a jurist and a strong supporter of natural human rights. He initiated the idea that torture was not only cruel but wrong in and of itself. Breccaria also thought that the death penalty is too extreme and that other forms of punishment like tar and feathering are the wrong way to handle things.