The two responses that apply regarding how John Locke's philosophical ideas shaped the content of the Declaration of Independence are:
- His theories on natural rights led the text to mention life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
- His theories on government led to the idea that people had the right to choose a new leader.
Locke's emphasis on natural rights greatly influenced the founding principles outlined in the Declaration, particularly the notions of individual rights and the purpose of government as serving the people’s consent.