John Locke, Jean- Jacques Rousseau and Niccolò di Bernardo dei Machiavelli analyze the concepts of human nature. Individually each philosopher has a distinct perception on human nature in itself. Locke and Rousseau define the natural state humans are born into, while Machiavelli illustrates the characteristics a person must have to be a effective leader. These alternative conceptions of human nature outline the differing mental processes of each author. Locke, Rousseau, and Machiavelli- used syntax and interpretation that varied, which served to characterize their stances on human nature.
These contrasting ideals of human nature, can be supported or dismissed by Charles Murray 's interpretation of the New Upper Class and the New Lower Class in America. Murray’s novel Coming Apart, redefines the American social classes and establishes the New Upper
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He classifies these inequalities in two categories- natural or physical and moral or political. The concept of inequality can parallel to Murrays concept of social status or class. According to Murray, each class has various factors- which determine the individuals rank in the community. This rank defines the impact this individual can have on society. For example, a city official will impact a community more than a person who has no occupation and does not contribute to society. Unlike Rousseau, Murray does not mention specifically whether or not there is a biological factor that determines the individuals rank in society. He does acknowledge the “cognitive segregation” that increased due to the technological advances, which allowed people to surround themselves with individuals of the same cognitive ability. Meaning that intellectual ability, is not equally distributed. It varies depending on the individual, but those with similar abilities are inclined to wanting to be around individuals