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Read the following excerpt from the Declaration of Independence. Which
Enlightenment idea likely inspired this passage?
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are
created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with
certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life,
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Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. That to secure
these rights, Governments are instituted among Men,
deriving their just powers from the consent of the
-
governed, That whenever any Form of Government
becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the
People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new
Government, laying its foundation on such principles and
organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem
most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness.2
A. Charles de Montesquieu's writings about separation of powers
B. Thomas Hobbes' theories on the importance of absolute
monarchy
C. John Locke's support for the principle of popular sovereign
D. William Blackstone's arguments in favor of the rule of law



Answer :

GinnyAnswer
The excerpt from the Declaration of Independence is likely inspired by C. John Locke's support for the principle of popular sovereignty.

1. John Locke, an Enlightenment philosopher, believed in the concept of popular sovereignty, which means that the power of the government should come from the consent of the governed, the people. This idea is reflected in the passage which mentions that governments derive their powers from the consent of the governed.

2. The passage also talks about the right of the people to alter or abolish a government that fails to protect their unalienable rights. This idea of the people having the right to change a government that does not serve their interests aligns with Locke's belief in the right of revolution if a government violates natural rights.

3. Additionally, Locke's philosophy emphasized the protection of individual rights such as life, liberty, and property, which are reflected in the Declaration of Independence as "Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness."

Therefore, the passage is most likely inspired by John Locke's Enlightenment ideas on popular sovereignty, individual rights, and the right to alter or abolish a government that infringes upon those rights.

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