Final answer:
The Declaration of Independence was primarily written for ideological reasons, drawing on John Locke's natural rights theory and aiming to establish a government based on the consent of the governed. It was a reflection of Enlightenment principles and a declaration of the colonists' belief in their inherent right to independence.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Declaration of Independence, authored by Thomas Jefferson, is viewed by historians through different lenses—some, like Bernard Bailyn, argue for ideological reasons while others, such as Howard Zinn, suggest there may have been selfish motives. However, examining the document and the context in which it was written, it becomes apparent that ideological underpinnings were at the core of its creation.
Jefferson drew heavily on the ideas of John Locke, particularly on the theory of natural rights and government as a protector of these rights, rather than for selfish gain. This adoption of Locke's philosophies indicates an ideological movement aligned with the Enlightenment principles of individual liberties and the social contract—the belief that a government's legitimacy comes from its people's consent.
The essence of the Declaration was to articulate the colonists' belief that their rights were being infringed upon by British rule and that they had an innate right to independence. The invocation of equality and the notion of inalienable rights suggest an aspiration beyond personal interests, aiming for a foundation that would guarantee freedoms and inspire future generations. Thus, the Declaration of Independence was largely written for ideological, rather than selfish, reasons.