Analyze the Declaration of Independence. How was this document influenced by John Locke?(1 point)

Question

Responses

It is based on separation of powers.
It is based on separation of powers.

It is based on a list of grievances colonists had toward the King of England.
It is based on a list of grievances colonists had toward the King of England.

It is based on the concept of natural rights and social contract theory.
It is based on the concept of natural rights and social contract theory.

It is based on the Rights of Englishmen.

Answer 1

The best response to how the Declaration of Independence was influenced by John Locke is:

It is based on the concept of natural rights and social contract theory.

John Locke's philosophies, particularly his ideas about natural rights (life, liberty, and property) and the social contract, significantly influenced the founding principles laid out in the Declaration of Independence. Thomas Jefferson, the primary author of the document, incorporated Locke's belief that governments are formed to protect these natural rights, and when a government fails to do so, citizens have the right to alter or abolish it.