Member-only story

Or The Right Constitution Of Commonwealth Thomas Hollis Library: An Exploration of Enlightenment Political Thought

Derek Bell

·18.6k Followers· Follow

Published in The Excellencie Of A Free State: Or The Right Constitution Of A Commonwealth (Thomas Hollis Library)

5 min read

256 View Claps

16 Respond

Save

Listen

The Enlightenment was a period of intellectual and philosophical ferment that swept through Europe in the 18th century. It was a time of great change and upheaval, as old ideas and institutions were challenged and new ones emerged. In the realm of politics, the Enlightenment thinkers sought to create a more just and equitable society based on reason and natural law.

The Excellencie of a Free-State: Or, The Right Constitution of a Commonwealth (Thomas Hollis Library)

by Marchamont Nedham

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1137 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	280 pages

One of the most influential works of Enlightenment political thought is Thomas Hollis's Or The Right Constitution Of Commonwealth. Published in 1768, this book argued for the establishment of a republic based on the principles of popular sovereignty, limited government, and individual rights. Hollis's ideas were widely read and influential, and they played a significant role in the development of democratic ideals in both Europe and America.

The Natural Rights of Man

Hollis believed that all men are born with certain natural rights, including the right to life, liberty, and property. These rights are inherent and inalienable, and they cannot be taken away by any government. Hollis argued that the purpose of government is to protect these rights, and that any government that fails to do so is illegitimate.

Hollis's theory of natural rights was based on the Enlightenment belief in the inherent goodness of man. He argued that all men are capable of reason and self-government, and that they should therefore have a say in the decisions that affect their lives.

Popular Sovereignty

Hollis believed that the people are the ultimate source of all political authority. He argued that governments derive their power from the consent of the governed, and that they can only be legitimate if they are based on the will of the people.

Hollis's theory of popular sovereignty was a radical departure from the traditional view of government as a divine right. He argued that the people have the right to choose their own leaders and to hold them accountable for their actions.

Limited Government

Hollis believed that government should be limited in its powers. He argued that the government should only play a role in society when it is necessary to protect the natural rights of individuals.

Hollis was particularly concerned about the threat of tyranny. He argued that the government should be divided into separate branches, each with its own limited powers. This would help to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful and abusing its authority.

Individual Rights

Hollis believed that individuals have certain rights that cannot be infringed by the government. These rights include the right to freedom of speech, religion, and assembly.

Hollis argued that these rights are essential for the development of a free and just society. He believed that individuals should be free to express their opinions, to practice their religion, and to assemble with others without fear of government interference.

Legacy of Or The Right Constitution Of Commonwealth

Or The Right Constitution Of Commonwealth was a seminal work of Enlightenment political thought that had a profound impact on the development of democratic ideals. Hollis's ideas were widely read and influential, and they played a significant role in the American Revolution and the development of the United States Constitution.

Hollis's legacy continues to inspire people today. His belief in the inherent goodness of man, the importance of popular sovereignty, and the need for limited government are all essential principles of democracy. Hollis's work is a reminder that the struggle for freedom and justice is never over, and that we must always be vigilant in defending our rights.

Thomas Hollis's Or The Right Constitution Of Commonwealth is a classic work of Enlightenment political thought that continues to be relevant and inspiring today. Hollis's ideas about natural rights, popular sovereignty, limited government, and individual rights are essential principles of democracy. His work is a reminder that the struggle for freedom and justice is never over, and that we must always be vigilant in defending our rights.

The Excellencie of a Free-State: Or, The Right Constitution of a Commonwealth (Thomas Hollis Library)

by Marchamont Nedham

5 out of 5