Contemporary Ethics
Jefferson theory of revolution follows John Locke’s theory of government in concept and underlying philosophy. It depicts a direct derivative that indicates close similarities in the various scenarios and the models of addressing them. However, in some aspects, it also concurs to Hobbes theory in the governance of the society.
Jefferson theory of evolution and Locke’s theories of government.
Liberty and Pursuits of happiness
Like the Locke’s philosophy and belief that structures and systems must ensure happiness to the people that live under it, the Declaration of independence emphasizes that the people’s opinions and rights must be respected at all the time (Ferling, 2003). Both theories are based on the natural law that establishes God as a divine supreme being whose will is to see all the people live in peace and harmony without oppression. Therefore, in its principles Jefferson insisted that people must be given their rights to seek justice when it is violated by the governance. With Locke arguing that people should have the right to seek their justice done by punishing those who have committed crime, Jefferson insisted that people had the right to remove from authority the administration that was oppressive to them (Marc et at, 2008).
Governance and checks.
Jefferson indicated that all the rulers must be accountable to the people and the driving force must be derived from the people’s needs as opposed to their individual gains. Following the Britain’s insensitivity to the people’s suffering in America, the declaration was therefore point specific and unit directed towards future prevention of such situations that would oppress the people (Wilson, 2006). Locker’s before him had asserted that the most important reason for having the government was to support the ruled and therefore the ruled had to set the stage which all the governance activities would be operated from. Therefore both theories address the need to have institutions that protect the people’s interests. The declaration of independence amplified the need to have people representatives and top to bottom structure that would see all the people’s issues were addressed (Alan, 2008).
Jefferson theory of evolution and Hobbes theory of government.
Though these two theories are very different in approach and orientation, the declaration of independence agrees with the Hobbes theory that whatever the state does is correct by definition in that the same government has been chosen by the people and ruled by the people (William & Murray, 2001). Though the declaration of independence is very specific in approach as to give the power to majority of the people, it is however clear that if any aspect is wrong then it is the will of the same people as they are in all parts, sections and levels of the same governance.
Conclusion.
Jefferson theory of revolution followed the Locke’s theory of government in many aspects relating to the manner of applying the power and authority to the people. The declaration of independence acts to empower the people and encourage them to take active roles in checking it (Wilson, 2006). Besides, both theories establish the people to be the center and most important part of the governance systems. However, it differs strongly with the Hobbes theories major aspects except by argument that once the people assume power should be fully responsible for the decision they make.
Reference list.
Alan, M. (2008). Finding Jefferson: A Lost Letter, a Remarkable Discovery, and the First Amendment in an Age of Terrorism. New York: John Wiley ; Son.
Ferling, J. (2003). A Leap in the Dark: The Struggle to Create the American Republic. New York: Oxford University Press.
Marc, K., Landy, M. ; Sidney, M. (2008). American Government: Balancing Democracy and Rights. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.
William, K. ; Murray, M. 2001. America: Jefferson’s Declaration of Independence”. New York: Sage.
Wilson, H. (2006). Lincoln’s Sword: The Presidency and the Power of Words. New York: Sage.
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