How did Locke's theories differ from those of Hobbes?

Locke's theories differed from Hobbes' in their views on human nature, the social contract, and the role of government.

John Locke and Thomas Hobbes, two of the most influential philosophers of the Enlightenment period, had contrasting views on political philosophy, particularly on human nature, the social contract, and the role of government. Their theories have shaped modern political thought and continue to influence our understanding of politics and human rights.

Hobbes, in his seminal work 'Leviathan', posited that humans are inherently selfish and driven by fear of death and the desire for power. He believed that in a state of nature, without any form of government, life would be 'solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short'. To avoid this, Hobbes argued that individuals would willingly surrender their rights to an absolute sovereign, who would maintain peace and order.

Locke, on the other hand, had a more optimistic view of human nature. He believed that humans are rational and capable of empathy, and that they have natural rights to life, liberty, and property. In his 'Two Treatises of Government', Locke argued that the state of nature was a state of perfect freedom and equality, where individuals would follow natural laws based on reason and morality. Unlike Hobbes, Locke believed that individuals would form a social contract to protect their natural rights, not out of fear, but for the mutual benefit of all. The government, therefore, should be a democratic one, with the consent of the governed, and its main role is to protect these rights.

Furthermore, Locke's theory of government was revolutionary in that it included the right of revolution. If the government fails to protect the people's rights or becomes tyrannical, the people have the right to overthrow it. This was a stark contrast to Hobbes' belief in absolute sovereignty, where the sovereign's power is unquestionable.

In summary, while Hobbes viewed humans as naturally selfish and fearful, leading to the need for an absolute sovereign, Locke saw humans as rational and empathetic, leading to a democratic government that protects individual rights. These differing views on human nature, the social contract, and the role of government form the crux of the differences between Locke's and Hobbes' political theories.