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The Importance Of Equality In The Declaration Of Independence, By John Calhoun

833 Words4 Pages

"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness" (Calhoun 625). The quote is the initial statement in the Declaration of Independence. However, John Calhoun made an argument about equality by claiming that the doctrine claiming all men to be born free and equal is a false and dangerous constitutional error. Calhoun also creates a sustained argument that refutes politics by a Lockean understanding of equality. In this case, he offers his personal explanation in regards to why men are not eligible for an equal amount of liberty. Locke has a better case in regards to the understanding …show more content…

Additionally, he also played a significant role in emphasizing on issues that are in regards to equality, democracy, and liberty. He also plainly rejected some of the founding principles of equality that are found in the Declaration of Independence (Calhoun 626). In this case, he denied the acclaimed fact that humanity is born free and equal in human nature and basic needs. Calhoun claimed that states had the ability to take action to free themselves from their governments. His stance understood that the concurrent majority and interest groups have the capacity to influence their legislative bodies. Calhoun claims that individuals have a voice in public affairs. The representatives in such situations are viewed to perform as high-minded public servants. Moreover, the political leadership has an enhanced ability to improve and remain persistent. Issues in regards to corruption and demagoguery would decrease significantly. Furthermore, the interests of the people regardless of the social status would be honored. Calhoun also viewed inequality from the perspective that the concurrent majority played an essential role in providing structural restraints. Additionally, he also believed a vast majority of humanity is biased by motives of …show more content…

Additionally, his view of equality makes a better case based on the fact that it was not inadequate to the political realm. Locke also emphasized on religious toleration except atheism. Moreover, he also supported the general toleration of religious beliefs and at the same time remained pessimistic with the ex-communication of non-believers. Locke's political and religious understanding of life played an essential role in influencing his understanding of equality (Broers 1). In this case, these things put in the picture his moral code and also give details of the seemingly opposing ideas of his thinking. As a result, his idea of natural equal opportunity transitions from the shift from nature to the society. According to his beliefs, the role of equality is analyzed from a social perspective that brings about the idea of religious

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