Locke and Hobbes

Thesis:

Based on my understanding, I advocate for Locke's theory of government to achieve and preserve peace because people have consent over the government through the process of representative versus Hobbes' theory of an absolute monarchy.

I. Locke on Human Nature

a. Men keep promises, naturally socially

b. Peaceful

c. Human beings driven by emotion and reason

II. Locke on Reason

a. Self-rule through reason

b. Manage own affairs that's consistent with interest of others.

c. Manage own affairs that's consistent with well-being of others

III. Locke on natural law.

a. Humans know what is wrong and right

b. Capable of knowing what is lawful and unlawful

c. Can tell difference of what is theirs and what belongs to someone else

IV. Hobbes on Human Nature

a. No society

b. Continual fear

c. In state of war

V. Hobbes on Reason

a. Self-preservation; only do the things we want

b. Desire governs our reason

c. Care only about attaining of wealth, personal merit, and reputation

VI. Hobbes on Natural Law

a. People don't know what is theirs and what is someone else's

b. In process of endless violent conflict to seek peace

c. Attain peace only through social contract (promise)