Read the excerpt, then answer the question that follows.


The natural liberty of man is to be free from any superior power on earth, and not to be under the will or legislative authority of man, but to have only the law of nature for his rule.

- Second Treatise on Government (1689)


Which Enlightenment philosopher wrote that excerpt and whose ideas are reflected in the Declaration of Independence's emphasis on natural rights?

(1 point)
Responses

Jean-Jacques Rousseau
Jean-Jacques Rousseau

Montesquieu
Montesquieu

Thomas Hobbes
Thomas Hobbes

John Locke

1 answer

The excerpt is from John Locke. His ideas on natural rights and the concept of government being based on the consent of the governed greatly influenced the Declaration of Independence. Therefore, the correct answer is:

John Locke