How were John Locke, Baron de Montesquieu and Rousseau's views similar/different during the French Revolution?

by Nanda E

1. John Locke

1.1. What he believed

1.1.1. Locke's political theory was founded on social contract theory.Locke believed that human nature is characterized by reason and tolerance. Also believed that human nature allowed men to be selfish. They had the right to live,to enjoy liberty, and to own property and rulers had to obey those rules. Rulers who violated the law, could be replaced by the people.

2. Baron de Montesquieu

2.1. What he believed

2.1.1. Thought British power was nearly perfect. Power was divided equally among three branches of government: legislative, and both the executives. He later realized that it was a misunderstanding.

3. Rousseau

3.1. What he believed

3.1.1. Believes people can be good if they can pick their government and that they can control. Laws and governments must be based on popular sovereignty

4. Similarities

4.1. At the end, when Montesquieu realizes he has made a mistake about the House of Commons, his ideas match with Rousseau because they both wanted to change the government.

4.2. They all wanted a better life for everyone, and for everyone to be equal.

4.3. Locke and Rousseau sort of had the same idea, they wanted the people to control the government.

5. Differences

5.1. In the beginning Montesquieu had a different political view because he said the British government was perfect because of the three branches. Except he later realized the House of Commons just put them all together.

5.2. Even though Locke and Rousseau wanted the people to control the government, Rousseau wanted them to choose the ruler by popular sovereignty, while Locke wanted them to have more rights.