Below is an excerpt from the Declaration of Independence. Which popular Enlightenment idea is reflected in this writing?
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are
created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with
certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life,
Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. – That to secure
these rights, Governments are instituted among Men,
deriving their just powers from the consent of the
governed, – That whenever any form of Government
becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the
People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new
Government, laying its foundation on such principles and
organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem
most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. 2
A. Charles de Montesquieus writings about separation of powers
B. Jean-Jacques Rousseau's thoughts about political equality
C. William Blackstone's support for a strong rule of law
D. Thomas Hobbes theories on the importance of absolute
monarchy