Which philosophical concept is central to the core of the Declaration of Independence?

The central philosophical concept in the Declaration of Independence is Lockean Liberalism, which is deeply rooted in the ideas of John Locke regarding individual rights and government. Locke posited that individuals have inherent rights to life, liberty, and property, and that governments are created to protect these rights. This perspective is directly reflected in the Declaration, where it asserts that people are endowed with certain unalienable rights and it is the role of government to secure these rights.

Lockean Liberalism emphasizes that legitimate government is based on the consent of the governed, a principle strongly articulated in the Declaration as it states that governments derive their just powers from the consent of the people. This aligns with the notion that when a government fails to protect these rights or acts against the interests of the people, the citizens have the right to alter or abolish that government, further highlighting the emphasis on individual freedoms and rights as foundational to the social contract.

While Social Contract Theory is also relevant, it encompasses a broader range of theories beyond Locke's specific liberal approach. Utilitarianism focuses on the greatest good for the greatest number, which is not a primary concern in the Declaration’s emphasis on individual rights. Deontological Ethics, centered around duty and moral principles, does not align as closely