Final answer:
The Declaration of Independence was influenced by three key Enlightenment ideas: Limits on government power, Natural rights, and Consent of the governed, drawing from philosophers like John Locke and Montesquieu.
Step-by-step explanation:
Enlightenment Ideas in the Declaration of Independence
The writing of the Declaration of Independence was heavily influenced by Enlightenment ideas. Three specific Enlightenment ideas that particularly shaped the document were Limits on government power, Natural rights, and Consent of the governed. These ideas were primarily drawn from the philosophies of Enlightenment thinkers like John Locke and Montesquieu.
Natural rights are fundamental to the Declaration as expressed in the famous phrase "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness" which directly echoes Locke's theory of unalienable rights. The concept of Limits on government power and checks and balances comes from Montesquieu, advocating for a division of governmental powers. Lastly, the idea of Consent of the governed emphasizes that legitimate government authority comes from the people's approval, a notion also grounded in John Locke's social contract theory.
These Enlightenment ideals contributed to the shaping of the Declaration, arguing for America's independence from Britain and outlining a new government that protects the citizens' rights and freedoms.