Which European philosopher had the greatest impact on the Declaration of independence?

Question

Which European philosopher had the greatest impact on the Declaration of independence?

Answer 1

Hobbes called on the danger of anarchy, people act selfishly, law and order, conflict and political science. Rousseau believed in natural innocence, the general will, the social contract, and that the society placed to many limitations. Locke believed in the freedom from the  "creator", life, liberty and property ( which was later changed to "pursuit of happiness because they didn't want every one to own land) and that we can voluntarily change government.  Voltaire believed in humor/ satire, to ridicule traditional powers, free speech, limited government. and finally Montesquieu believed in separation of powers so he created the legislative, judicial, and executive branch.

so there are five important philosophers' that helped create the Declaration of independence.

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Answer 2

Hobbes, Locke, Voltaire, Rousseau. Pretty much the above poster has it nailed, although you will find that the Founders were a VERY well read bunch of cats, and they took everything from Plato's Republic to the Enlightenment thinkers they are usually associated with.

Answer 3

John Locke (English); Voltaire & Rousseau (French).  All were European Enlightenment philosophers.  The ideas of Enlightenment contributed to the French Revolution and then spread to America, spurring the American Revolution.

If you want ONE philosopher with the greatest impact, maybe John Locke.

Answer 4

Thomas Jefferson, a great European, that adopted a new land.