Which political philosopher's ideas are primarily expressed in the Declaration of Independence?

The ideas primarily expressed in the Declaration of Independence can be traced back to John Locke, a significant political philosopher known for his contributions to liberal political theory. Locke's philosophy emphasizes the concepts of natural rights, including life, liberty, and property, which directly influenced the framers of the Declaration.

In the document, the assertion that all men are created equal and are endowed with certain unalienable rights reflects Locke's belief that these rights are inherent and not granted by government. Furthermore, Locke argued that the legitimacy of government is derived from the consent of the governed, a principle that is foundational in the Declaration's assertion that the government's role is to secure these rights. When a government fails in this duty, Locke maintained that the people have the right to alter or abolish it, a sentiment echoed in the Declaration’s justification for seeking independence from British rule.

The other political philosophers, while significant in their own right, do not align as closely with the principles expressed in the Declaration. Thomas Hobbes focused on the necessity of a strong central authority, contrasting with the Declaration's advocacy for individual rights. Jean-Jacques Rousseau emphasized the concept of the social contract and collective will, which is not the primary focus of the Declaration. Montesquieu