Definitions
People
Key Ideas
100

A political theory where one ruler has absolute and undivided authority

What is Absolutionism?
100

17th century philosopher, most known for his work "Two Treatise of Government

Who was John Locke?

100

A concept popularized by Rousseau that refers to the collective will of citizens aimed at the common good of of the community over individual desires

What is the General Will?

200

A political and moral philosophy based on the rights of the individual, liberty, consent of the governed, political equality, right to private property and equality before the law.

What is Liberalism?

200

18th century philosopher most known for his work, "The Social Contract"

Who is Jean-Jacques Rosseau?

200

A state of perfect freedom to order one's actions and dispose of their possessions and persons are they see fit, within the bounds of the law of nature

What is the State of Nature?

300

Power that is not based on any principle, plan, or system.

What is Arbitrary Power?

300

A 17th century philosopher most known for his work, "Leviathan"

Who is Thomas Hobbes?

300

A form of government that Montesquieu argues is ineffective because the power is not split up among several groups.

What is a Republic?

400

Absolute, arbitrary power one man has over another, to take away his life whenever he pleases;

What is Despotical Power?

400

An 18th century philosopher who introduced the idea of separation of power in governments

Who is Montesquieu?

400

A form of government formed wholly of the individuals who compose it.

What is the Sovereign?