Locke & Rousseau

Locke and Rousseau were two philosophers of the Enlightenment. Both wrote extensively and developed theories of the human nature and how men governed themselves. Both philosophers agree that before civilized man began to govern himself, man existed in a state of nature. That is, humans lacked society or structure. Rousseau argues that this was and still is the perfect state for man, where he is free, autonomous and virtuous. Government and civil society is developed …

…the general will than any other citizen in society, Rousseau maintains that no one really loses any freedom. Despite their differences, Locke and Rousseau both became two of the most influential political theorists in the world. Their ideas and philosophies spread all over the world influencing the creation of many new governments, including the United States. Whatever flaws their ideas had, it can't be disputed that they both were very important figures in the Enlightenment.