Comparative Comparative ReviewReview

Hobbes, LockeHobbes, Locke

AndAnd

RousseauRousseau

Comparative Comparative ReviewReview

Hobbes, LockeHobbes, Locke

AndAnd

RousseauRousseau

Nature of Man

What is man like without restraint of law or morality?

Hobbes:

aggressive, selfish

Locke and Rousseau:

rational, sociable, cooperative

Condition of Man Within Nature

What is life like for Man in the State of Nature?

Hobbes: abysmal; “solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short”

Locke: frustrating; no room for progression

Rousseau: idyllic (sort of)

Extent of Natural Rights

What Rights does Man possess by or in nature?

Hobbes: self preservation

Locke: God-given rights (life,

property)

Rousseau: inalienable rights (life, property)

Source of Sovereignty

Where does Political Power come from?

Hobbes: ruler is sovereign

Locke: people are sovereign; government exists with

the consent of the governed

Rousseau: the people are sovereign

Purpose of Government

What is the main role of the State?

Hobbes: social control and keep order

Locke: protect rights and serve the majority

Rousseau: protect rights, serve the general will

Nature of the Social Contract

What is the relationship between the government and the people?

Hobbes: irrevocable, one-sided

Locke: the people retain the right to change the government

Rousseau: the people retain the right to change the government