- Developed by John Locke
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Argues that human beings are rational and can build a state that reflects their needs
- e.g., need for freedom and self-fulfilment
- Rejects idea of ‘divine right of kings’ and religion in political system
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Reflected by the founding fathers in the US Constitution
- “We the people”
Mechanistic theory
- US Constitution
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Origins of Liberalism
every individual has an ability to think freely (Mechanistic theory)