enlightenment: Lesson 28

During the Enlightenment, the concept of natural rights became prominent, primarily through the work of John Locke. He argued that all individuals possess inherent rights to life, liberty, and property that cannot be taken away by governments. This idea became foundational in the development of democratic societies, as it justified rebellion against tyrannical rule and emphasized that governments exist to protect these rights. The Declaration of Independence, written by Thomas Jefferson, echoed Locke’s philosophy by asserting that people have the right to alter or abolish their government if it fails to secure their rights.