Video: Declaration of Independence
Summary of the Social Contract
The social contract is an important part of American political thought. It is apparent that Jefferson was acquainted with Locke’s work, and you can see the parallels between the Declaration of Independence and Locke’s philosophies. Locke was not the only writer to voice those ideas, but they were significant because of their timing and their similarities to the American expression of the Social Contract. Many important ideas are revealed in Locke’s writings, which democratic systems must acknowledge:
- Government must protect all natural rights.
- Government by consent and the concept that consent can be withdrawn.
- Men have natural rights to life, liberty and property which government may not deny.
- In a civil society, the citizenry are subject to majority rule.
- Popular sovereignty: The people are the source of government power.
If you have not done so, be sure to read the Declaration of Independence posted in the M1 Tasks Folder. You will see the comparison between Locke’s views and our own Declaration of Independence. Consider the Social Contract as you view the Declaration of Independence video.
Select the play button to begin the video and then use the navigation buttons to pause/stop, continue, or reset the video. View the presentation as often as you like, and take notes as you follow along. Be sure to set your volume at a reasonable level before you begin.
