1.1-Enlightenment Ideas that influenced the Founding Fathers
John Locke
English philosopher who believed the idea of a "social contract" in which government powers are derived from the consent of the governed and in which the government serves the people; also said people have natural rights to life, liberty and property.
consent of the governed
People are the source of any and all governmental power, social contract
Beliefs of John Locke
People enjoyed certain rights under natural law; life, liberty and property-natural rights. People join together under a social contract that gives a ruler and government the right to rule and must protect the peoples rights. People can rebel If the government breaks the contract with the people.
Natural Law
Rules that all society follow, that are based on common sense. Each person is guaranteed the right to life, liberty and property.
Executive Powers
The power to carry out and enforces the laws
Judicial Powers
The power to interpret the application of the law
Legislative Powers
The power to make laws
Enlightenment
a movement that emphasized science and reason as guides to help see the world more clearly
Check and balances
a principle of the federal government, according to the U.S. Constitution, that allows each branch of government to limit the power of the other branches
Social Contract
agreement between a people and their government, people would give up some freedom and their government would provide protection and order. If the government fails, then the people can alter or abolish the government.
Baron de Montesquieu
believed government should have separation of powers along with checks and balances to limit those powers
Founding Fathers
representatives from each of the 13 colonies who debated and ratified a document stating their reasons for separation and independence from England
Unalienable/natural rights
the idea that all humans are born with rights given to them by God, which include the right to life, liberty, and property
Separation of Powers
the structure of the federal government, according to the U.S. Constitution, that sets up three branches with their own distinct powers and responsibilities