OSHER 248 - Thomas Hobbes and John Locke: Origins of the Liberal Democratic Tradition

Thomas Hobbes (1588 -- 1679) and John Locke (1632 -- 1704) developed political theories that were greatly influential in initiating the tradition of liberal democratic thought that we live under today. Best known for the idea of society based on a social contract, they also developed ideas about the basis of morality, the nature of government, the role of law, and the idea of private property. Locke's ideas were especially influential on the founders of our country, particularly with respect to the idea that there is a natural right to "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness." We will examine both Hobbes and Locke with the aim of achieving a deeper understanding of the political tradition we live under.