God and the U.S. Government

Paper Summary:

This paper reviews and examines the writings of John Locke's "Second Treatise of Government" and Thomas Hobbes' "Leviathan." This paper asks and attempts to answer the question: Does the structure of the American government glorify God? The writer analyzes the similar logical arguments of both philosophers, relating to God and theology, while also detailing their various differences in relation to their views on the government and politics in general. The writer contends and explains why Locke's opinions are more convincing. Locke's view depicts a system of government more suitable, not only for Christians but for all mankind which places a higher value on human rights and personal beliefs. This paper also analyzes Hobbes' opinion which basically states that people are naturally evil and must be ruled and controlled in order to prevent chaos. This paper discusses Hobbes' contention that in order for mankind to be controlled there must be a political society to oversee and instill order.

From the Paper:

"Hobbes in his book, Leviathan, says that people are naturally wicked, and they most be ruled and controlled in order to prevent chaos. In order for them to be ruled, the people must enter into a political society. To enter into a political society, the people must make an agreement or contract with the other members of society in which they all equally give up their rights to a common superior. The common superior has to be an outside party, indifferent to everyone else, and not having a contract with the people. Once the people are in this common wealth, they cannot leave, and the person they put in control has indefinite, total, and absolute power over them. In the event that the ruler no longer works for the benefit of the people, they still do not have the right to leave or to replace him. In this system of government, Hobbes does not give people another chance if they make a wrong choice."

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