Philosophy Test 3. Part 1 with Hobbes, Locke and Marx
Hobbes, are citizens allowed to revolt
According to Hobbes, citizens are not allowed to revolt against the sovereign power. In Hobbes' view, the social contract between the sovereign and the people is based on the principle of mutual obligation. The people give up some of their individual rights and freedoms to the sovereign in exchange for protection and security, and the sovereign is obligated to provide this protection. Hobbes believed that the power of the sovereign should be absolute, and that the people should not question or challenge the authority of the sovereign. In his view, any attempt to overthrow the sovereign or disobey its commands would lead to chaos and violence, and would threaten the stability of society. However, Hobbes did recognize that there may be times when the actions of the sovereign are unjust or oppressive. In such cases, he believed that the people should submit to the authority of the sovereign and seek to remedy their grievances through peaceful means, such as petitions or appeals to the sovereign. Hobbes did not believe that violent revolution was a legitimate means of changing the political order, as it would only lead to further disorder and bloodshed.
Hobbes: State of War
All against all, life becomes nasty, brutish, and short (with high likeliness of getting killed). It's not that people are intrinsically bad, but they can't secure their things so they act to save themselves.
List and give two examples of how the bourgeoisie exploit the working class, according to Marx.
As a society and individual, Marx believed that the capitalist system alienates the worker from the products of their labor, from the production process and from their own humanity. The worker is a mere commodity, valued only for their ability to produce goods and services for the capitalist. The worker has no control over the means of production, the work process, and the end result. The workers do simple repetitive work that does not engage the workers mind, therefore alienates them from their own creative potential and from the satisfaction of producing something of value to them. This can also effect the workers social relationships as they compete with other workers for jobs and wages, instead of them cooperating with each other for the common good. The second example is through surplus where the capitalist exploit the workers for their own profit. With the capitalist owning the means of production and is able to pay the worker less than the value of that they produce. For example if a worker produces goods work $10 an hour but is only paid $5 per hour, the capitalist would be able to pocket the difference of $5 an hour for a profit. In the notes it stated, "The most successful companies employ individuals and pay them wages they need to survive." (Wedding).
Hobbes how much power should the sovereign have
Hobbes believed that the sovereign should have absolute power to maintain order and prevent individuals from resorting to violence and chaos in their pursuit of self-interest. The sovereign should have the power to make and enforce laws, and to punish those who disobey them. In Hobbes' view, the sovereign's power should be indivisible, meaning that it should not be shared with any other person or institution, and it should be inalienable, meaning that it cannot be taken away by the people. Hobbes argued that the power of the sovereign should be absolute because in a state of nature, life is "solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short." Without a strong and centralized authority to keep order, people would be in a constant state of war with each other, making life unbearable. Therefore, according to Hobbes, the only way to escape the state of nature and ensure peace and stability is to give absolute power to a sovereign who can enforce laws and maintain order.
jean Jacques Rousseau and inequality
Jean-Jacques Rousseau is known for his critique of inequality in society. He believed that inequality was not a natural condition, but rather the result of the development of civilization and the rise of private property. According to Rousseau, in the state of nature, humans lived in a state of equality and independence, where they were free to pursue their own interests without the interference of others. However, as societies developed, people began to establish private property, which led to the creation of social classes and the concentration of wealth and power in the hands of a few. Rousseau believed that this development of inequality was the root of many social problems, including poverty, crime, and war. He argued that the wealthy and powerful used their position to exploit and oppress the poor, leading to widespread suffering and social unrest. In order to address this inequality, Rousseau believed that society needed to return to a more natural and equal state. He proposed that individuals should come together to form a social contract, in which they would surrender some of their individual freedom in exchange for the protection of their rights and interests by a government that acted in the common good.
John Locke (Right to Revolt)
John Locke believed that individuals have a right to revolt against a government that fails to protect their natural rights, including their property rights. According to Locke, individuals form governments in order to protect their natural rights, and governments that fail to do so lose their legitimacy. Locke argued that the right to revolt arises when a government becomes tyrannical or oppressive, violating the natural rights of its citizens. In his view, a government that violates the consent of the governed and fails to protect their natural rights forfeits its right to govern, and the people have a right to overthrow it. However, Locke also recognized that the decision to revolt should not be taken lightly. He believed that individuals should exercise patience and restraint, and that they should only resort to revolution as a last resort when all other avenues of redress have been exhausted. In addition, Locke believed that individuals should have a reasonable chance of success before attempting to overthrow a government. In his view, a failed revolution would likely lead to even greater oppression and tyranny, and could result in the loss of even more natural rights. Overall, Locke's theory of the right to revolt emphasizes the importance of protecting natural rights and limiting government power. While he believed that individuals have the right to revolt against a government that violates their natural rights, he also recognized that this right should be exercised with caution and only as a last resort.
John Locke on theory of property
John Locke is known for his influential theory of property, which he presents in his Second Treatise of Government. In his view, property is a natural right that individuals possess in the state of nature, and it is one of the main reasons why individuals enter into society and form governments. According to Locke, individuals have the right to acquire and own property by mixing their labor with natural resources. This means that when a person works to improve a piece of land or natural resource, they acquire a property right in that resource. This right to property is considered a natural right, because it is based on an individual's labor and effort, rather than on social convention or legal institutions. Locke also believed that the purpose of government is to protect property rights, both by enforcing laws against theft and by establishing a legal system that protects property rights and resolves disputes. He argued that governments that fail to protect property rights are illegitimate and can be overthrown. At the same time, Locke recognized that there are limits to property rights. He believed that individuals are entitled to acquire only as much property as they can use or manage effectively, and that they should not be allowed to accumulate property to the detriment of others. Locke also believed that the government has a role in regulating property rights in the interests of the common good, such as through taxation and land-use planning. Overall, Locke's theory of property emphasizes the importance of individual rights and labor, while recognizing the need for government to protect and regulate property rights in the interests of the common good. His ideas continue to influence debates over property rights and economic policy today.
what was John Lockes state of nature and abundance of good and natural law
John Locke's state of nature is a hypothetical scenario used by the philosopher to illustrate what life would be like without a government or social contract to maintain order. In Locke's state of nature, individuals would be free and equal, and would possess natural rights such as life, liberty, and property. However, in the absence of a government, these rights would be unprotected and could be violated by others. Locke believed that the state of nature would be characterized by an abundance of goods, but a scarcity of security. In this state, individuals would have to rely on their own strength and resources to defend themselves and their property from others. This would lead to a constant state of war, as people would be inclined to use violence to protect themselves and their possessions. To escape the state of nature, Locke argued that individuals would need to enter into a social contract with one another, creating a government to protect their natural rights and maintain order. According to Locke, the purpose of government is to protect these natural rights, and it derives its power from the consent of the governed. Locke also believed in the concept of natural law, which he saw as a set of moral principles that are inherent in the natural order of the world. In Locke's view, natural law provides a basis for human morality, and it is the duty of the government to uphold and enforce these moral principles in the interests of the common good.
Karl Marx and government and the bourgeoisie
Karl Marx believed that the government in capitalist societies serves the interests of the ruling class, or bourgeoisie, which controls the means of production and exploits the working class. In his view, the state is an instrument of class rule, used by the bourgeoisie to maintain their power and privilege over the working class. Marx argued that the bourgeoisie use the state to enforce their will on the working class, through laws, regulations, and the use of force. He believed that the state is controlled by the ruling class, and that the interests of the working class are often ignored or suppressed by those in power. However, Marx did not believe that the solution to this problem was simply to replace the ruling class with a new ruling class, as he believed that any ruling class would eventually become corrupted by its power and begin to exploit the working class. Instead, he called for the abolition of the capitalist system and the establishment of a classless society in which the means of production are owned collectively and controlled democratically. Marx argued that the working class, or proletariat, should overthrow the bourgeoisie and establish a socialist system in which workers control the means of production and the state is used to promote the interests of the working class. He believed that this would lead to a more just and equal society, in which individuals are free to pursue their own interests without being exploited by others.
Karl Marx class struggle and history
Karl Marx was a German philosopher, economist, and social theorist who is best known for his theory of historical materialism and his analysis of class struggle. According to Marx, the history of human society is marked by class struggle, in which different social classes compete for power and resources. Marx believed that social classes are defined by their relationship to the means of production, such as factories, machinery, and land. In his view, those who own and control the means of production, such as capitalists and landowners, are able to exploit those who do not, such as workers and peasants. This exploitation leads to conflict and struggle between the classes, as each seeks to gain more power and control over society. Marx argued that the history of human society can be understood in terms of different modes of production, which are characterized by specific forms of class struggle. For example, feudalism was marked by a struggle between lords and serfs, while capitalism is marked by a struggle between capitalists and workers. Marx also believed that history is driven by material forces, such as technological advances, economic developments, and changes in the means of production. He argued that these material forces shape social relations and give rise to new forms of class struggle, which in turn drive historical change. Overall, Marx's theory of class struggle and historical materialism emphasizes the role of economic and social forces in shaping human society, and highlights the ongoing struggle between different classes for power and resources. His ideas have had a profound impact on social and political theory, and continue to inform debates over issues such as economic inequality, labor relations, and social justice.
Marx critique of capitalism
Karl Marx's critique of capitalism was based on his belief that the system was inherently exploitative and unsustainable. He argued that capitalism was based on the exploitation of the working class, which was forced to sell its labor power in exchange for wages that were insufficient to meet its basic needs. According to Marx, the capitalist system is organized around the production of commodities, which are produced for exchange in the market rather than for their use value. In this system, labor is treated as a commodity, and workers are paid only a fraction of the value of the goods and services they produce. The surplus value generated by their labor is appropriated by capitalists, who use it to expand their businesses and increase their profits. Marx also argued that capitalism creates an inherent contradiction between the interests of capitalists and workers. As capitalists seek to maximize profits, they seek to reduce labor costs by driving down wages and increasing the intensity of work. This leads to increased exploitation and alienation among workers, who are increasingly disengaged from the production process and treated as interchangeable cogs in the machinery of capitalism. Moreover, Marx argued that capitalism is inherently unstable and prone to crises, as the pursuit of profit leads to overproduction and underconsumption, which in turn leads to economic downturns and recessions. He believed that these crises would become increasingly frequent and severe over time, leading ultimately to the collapse of the capitalist system and its replacement by a more equitable and sustainable system. Overall, Marx's critique of capitalism emphasized the exploitation and alienation of workers, the contradictions inherent in the capitalist system, and its tendency toward crisis and instability. His ideas continue to inform debates over the merits and drawbacks of capitalist systems, and the possibility of alternative economic models.
John Locke purpose of government
Locke believe the purpose of government is more freedom and equality, where individuals natural rights can not be taken by anyone, including the government. The notes stated that "Locke's political philosophy was the blueprint by which the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were constructed." These rights that Locke speaks of includes life, liberty and property, and they are essential for individuals to live a fulfilling life. In order to protect our rights than individuals agree to give up some of their rights to a government that is accountable to them and whose purpose is to protect them. This includes maintaining social order and protecting humans from harm but is limited in the governments powers and authority. He suggest that the government must respect the rights of citizens and if the government fails to protect these rights then the citizens have the right to resist or overthrow it. Locke's ideas were influential in developing a liberal democracy.
procapitalist argument against Marx
One of the main arguments made by proponents of capitalism against Karl Marx's critique is that it fails to take into account the benefits of free markets and competition. They argue that capitalism promotes innovation and efficiency, leading to increased economic growth, job creation, and higher living standards for everyone. Proponents of capitalism argue that capitalism allows for the efficient allocation of resources, as prices reflect the relative scarcity of goods and services and the demand for them. They argue that competition encourages businesses to produce goods and services that are of higher quality and lower cost, and that this ultimately benefits consumers. They also argue that capitalism provides individuals with the opportunity to create wealth and improve their economic well-being through entrepreneurship, hard work, and innovation. They point to the success stories of self-made entrepreneurs as evidence of the opportunities available in a capitalist system. Additionally, proponents of capitalism argue that Marx's vision of a socialist or communist society is flawed, as it fails to take into account the incentives necessary to motivate individuals to work hard and innovate. They argue that in a socialist or communist system, there would be less incentive for individuals to work hard and be productive, leading to reduced economic growth and a lower standard of living.
Hobbes State of nature
The two defining characteristics of Hobbes State of Nature is competition and equality. These characteristics, according to Hobbes, lead to a violent and unstable society and can only be fixed by establishing a strong, centralized government to regulate human behavior. The first being competition, individuals are in a constant state of competition with each other. Without an external authority to enforce rules or disputes then individuals must rely on their own strength to protect themselves and acquire resources like food and shelter. He argued that this competition leads to "war, as is of every man, against everyman.." And results in "the life of man, solitary, poor, nasty, brutish and short". The second characteristic is about equality. While some people may be stronger, smarter or more skilled than others, there is no inherent authority or hierarchy to distinguish between them. This means that anyone can challenge anyone else for resources or status and there is no guarantee that the strongest will win. "The weakest has strength enough to kill the strongest, either by secret machination or by confederacy with others".
Hobbes purpose of government
impose law and order, keep peace Hobbes believed that the purpose of government was to provide security and maintain order in society. He argued that individuals enter a social contract with the government and give up some of their individual rights and freedoms in exchange for protection and security. In return, the government is responsible for maintaining social order and providing services such as law enforcement and infrastructure. Hobbes view is that the government should have absolute poser and authority over its citizens in order to prevent chaos and preserve social stability. This type of unlimited power over the people is called absolutism.
John Locke and Natural Rights
possess simply by virtue of being human. In Locke's view, these natural rights include the right to life, liberty, and property. According to Locke, natural rights are universal and inalienable, meaning that they cannot be taken away by any government or authority. Instead, the purpose of government is to protect these natural rights and ensure that they are not violated by others. Locke argued that the protection of natural rights is the primary purpose of government. He believed that individuals form governments in order to protect their natural rights, and that government derives its power from the consent of the governed. If a government fails to protect natural rights, or if it violates the consent of the governed, Locke argued that the people have the right to alter or abolish the government and establish a new one that will better protect their natural rights. Locke's concept of natural rights has been highly influential in the development of liberal democracy and human rights theory, and it has informed the constitutions and legal systems of many countries around the world.
Hobbes purpose of government
impose law and order, keep peace
Hobbes' Social Contract Theory
people create government and give up their rights to a strong ruler in exchange for law and order - absolute monarchy