Thomas Hobbes argued that people were naturally cruel, greedy, and selfish. If not controlled they would fight, rob, and oppress one another. He believed that only a powerful government could ensure an orderly society; or an absolute monarchy. John Locke believed people were reasonable, moral, and that they had natural rights; rights that belonged to all humans from birth. Locke thought the best government limited power and was accepted by all citizens. Baron de Montesquieu believed the British had protected themselves against tyranny by dividing the functions of government into branches; legislature, executive, and judiciary. These three men whom were introduced to me in my World History class created and shaped our modern government. Their ideas opened a new way for us to strategically handle difficult situations.
Hobbes is what we now know as a Conservative and Locke would be called a Liberal. These are the two main groups which make up Democrats and Republicans. Often times, their juxtaposition in beliefs are what greatly influence their decisions in court. They have different opinions on rape, murder, and theft cases. A Liberal jury could believe a defendant for murder deserves 40 years in prison while a Conservative one might decide for the death penalty, you know, “an eye for an eye”. What’s the better way for criminals to learn? Should they be given a second chance in society so they can make-up for their mistake? Or should they pay for it with a harsh punishment so that their fear will stop them from doing the crime again; becoming an example for the rest of us?
If our life was perfect, there would be nothing to fight for, nothing to motivate us for achievement. We need a little of both worlds; some good to teach us who we can be, and some bad to teach us who we shouldn’t be. This makes us a stronger, wiser nation. We learn from others and see how our decisions, especially in a court room, can change the structure of civilization. Laws do...