The Right of Revolution

The paper explores the contrasting views of Thomas Hobbes and John Locke regarding the right of revolution within their social contract theories. It highlights Hobbes's depiction of the sovereign as a near-divine figure, in contrast to Locke's portrayal of a fallible, mortal sovereign. This fundamental difference shapes their respective understandings of revolution. Additionally, it discusses how Locke's ideas influenced the American Founding Fathers in their quest for independence, and concludes by linking these concepts to contemporary political revolutions globally.