America Reimagined – the “OG” Influencers.

America had early influencers to help shape the revolutionary ideals of liberty, equality and democracy that are central to American political philosophy. Jefferson and other authors and architects of an American declaration for independence, were undoubtedly inspired by many Western European philosophers, economists and visionaries. It’s possible none more than these two early influencers.

John Locke and Montesquieu are two pivotal figures whose philosophies significantly shaped the foundational documents of the United States, such as the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution.

An Advocate of Natural Rights

John Locke’s philosophy centers around the idea of natural rights, which asserts that every individual possesses inherent rights to life, liberty, and property. In the context of the Declaration of Independence, these ideas are vividly reflected in Thomas Jefferson’s assertion that "all men are created equal" and are endowed with certain unalienable rights. Locke also argued the primary purpose of government is to protect these rights, and when a government fails to do so, citizens have the right to correct a failing government. This principle was a catalyst for the American Revolution and underscores the significance of accountability in governance.

In America today, Locke's viewpoints serve as a crucial reminder of the necessity for a government that prioritizes the protection of individual rights and freedoms. As modern society grapples with issues such as privacy, surveillance, and the balance between security and liberty, Locke’s emphasis on individual rights challenges citizens and policymakers to ensure that government actions do not infringe upon personal freedoms. His philosophy calls for active civic participation and measured vigilance against tyranny, advocating for a political culture that encourages engagement, accountability, and transparency.

An Architect for Separation of Powers

Charles Louis de Secondat, baron de La Brede et de Montesquieu’s contributions, particularly his theory of the separation of powers, are foundational to the structure of the U.S. government as established in the Constitution. He argued that political power should be divided among different branches of government to prevent any one entity from becoming too powerful and safeguarding liberty.

In contemporary America, Montesquieu’s ideas on the separation of powers are more relevant than ever. In an era characterized by political polarization and debates over the limits of executive power, Montesquieu’s framework serves as a guiding principle for maintaining checks and balances within government. The importance of independent institutions is paramount in ensuring that power is not concentrated in any single branch. This principle fosters a system of accountability that is essential for a functioning democracy.

Specifically, the US Constitution holds 535 Congress members, 9 US Supreme Court justices, 1 Vice President and 1 President who are tasked to do their job while staying in their lane. And when that’s not working, the people have a way to change how they are represented by voting for or against 537 of them.

The Enduring Legacy

The philosophies of Locke and Montesquieu center on the importance of individual rights and a balanced government structure. The Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution embody these ideals, reflecting a commitment to liberty, equality, and justice. As America navigates contemporary challenges—ranging from social justice movements to debates over governmental authority—drawing on the insights of Locke and Montesquieu, being foundational pillars of the US Constitution, may be helpful to inspire more equitable policies and protect against potential abuses of power.

John Locke and Montesquieu are often heralded as two of the most significant philosophers whose ideas laid the groundwork for modern democratic governance.

Comparing and Contrasting Their Viewpoints with Current U.S. Government

Locke and Montesquieu offer complementary perspectives on governance, yet they also highlight different aspects of political philosophy. Locke’s focus is primarily on the rights of individuals and the responsibilities of government to protect those rights. In contrast, Montesquieu emphasizes the.structure and organization of government itself.

In contemporary America, the dialogue around civil rights and individual liberties is heavily influenced by Locke’s philosophy. Movements advocating for equality and privacy protections echo Locke’s assertion that all individuals possess inherent rights. However, the implementation of these rights can be inconsistent reflecting ongoing societal debates about the extent of governmental authority versus individual freedoms.

Montesquieu’s influence is evident in the operational framework of the U.S. government. The persistent struggle to maintain the balance of power among the branches illustrates the ongoing relevance of his ideas. The increase in partisanship has led to questions about whether Congress can effectively check the executive branch, risking the very liberty Montesquieu sought to protect.

Both philosophers also grapple with the implications of majority rule and minority rights. Locke’s belief in natural rights implies that the majority cannot infringe upon the rights of the minority, a fundamental principle in a diverse society. Montesquieu’s separation of powers aims to ensure that minority voices are heard and protected within the governing structure. However, current political polarization can sometimes overshadow these principles.

Simply, John Locke and Montesquieu provide essential frameworks for understanding the principles that underlie the U.S. Constitution. Their insights into natural rights and the separation of powers remain pertinent as America confronts contemporary challenges.

It’s imperative we stay mindful of what we can and should be.