Final answer:
The Organic view of government, exemplified by John Locke, emphasizes the protection of natural rights and individual liberties, whereas the Mechanistic view, represented by Jeremy Bentham, prioritizes government intervention to achieve the greatest good for the greatest number. These perspectives influence the perceived role of government in society and its responsibilities towards its citizens.
Step-by-step explanation:
The difference between Organic and Mechanistic Views of Government refers to varying philosophical perspectives on the nature and role of the state in society. This can be illuminated when reviewing the ideas from early political philosophers and comparing how they viewed natural rights and the role of government.
John Locke, for example, had a perspective that saw individuals as possessing natural rights that governments must respect and protect. His view suggests a government that works to serve the people, safeguarding their rights and freedoms. In contrast, Jeremy Bentham did not believe in natural rights, and instead, advocated for what he called 'legal rights' established by the government. He suggested that government's role is to provide the greatest happiness to the greatest number of people, implying a more utilitarian approach to governance.
Their differing views would have influenced their ideas about government significantly. Locke's perspective might lead to a government that emphasizes individual liberties and limited interference, while Bentham's could justify a more interventionist role for the state where necessary for the greater good. When considering which perspective you agree with, it depends on whether you value individual rights as paramount or see the role of government as mainly to maximize societal welfare.