John Locke
An English philosopher and physician, one of the influential Enlightenment thinkers
Real World Example
John Locke was an English philosopher who greatly influenced the Enlightenment, a period that emphasized reason and science. His ideas about natural rights, including life, liberty, and property, encouraged people to think about individual freedoms and government responsibilities. These ideas were important during the time of technological expansion, as they inspired more democratic governments that could support innovation and exploration. Today, Locke's emphasis on individual rights is reflected in how modern democracies protect personal freedoms, such as the right to privacy online. For example, when people discuss the importance of internet privacy and data protection, they are building on Locke's belief in the importance of personal liberty.
