Acct 205

Events that Change the World

HIST105-1203B-12

August 5, 2012

The Era of Enlightenment reshaped America into the way that it is today. It was a movement headed by great pioneers such as John Locke, Adam Smith, and Sir Isaac Newton (2011, p. 123). These pioneers fought to promote the progress of human reasoning throughout Europe and the United States.

Enlightenment/Political shape

Today’s political thought was influenced by the philosophies of the enlightenment movement. The Enlightenment era was very important to America because it gave a philosophical basis of the American Revolution. Although the revolution was a protest against English rule and law; it became a lot more than that. It became the foundation of a democratic society (2007). Enlightenment set the foundations for the American Declaration of Independence and other governing documents such as the Constitution

John Locke

John Locke was one of the first philosophers to fully express his views on the government. He expressed that government was morally obligated to work for the people by protecting life, liberty, and property (1996). He also stated that government power should be limited and work for the people. His views pointed out that when government encroaches upon individual rights, people may rebel with just cause (1996). His philosophies not only influenced but inspired people throughout America and Europe.

These ideas are still relevant in today’s society as we enjoy the many freedoms that we have due to the constitution and the declaration. The views and philosophy that Locke has left us with are also at work in today judicial system, government and everyday society.

References

Davidson, D. (2011). Experience history interpreting Americas past. (7th ed). McGraw-Hill.

Retrieved August 1, 2012, from AIU Online.

Powell, J. (1996). John Locke: natural rights to life, liberty, and property, Retrieved August 1,

2012, from...