Among Enlightenment writers, john Locke arguably had the greatest impact on Western civilization. His theories on natural rights, the social contract, and government by consent heavily influenced the development of liberal democracy and human rights. Locke's ideas laid the groundwork for key political documents, such as the U.S. Declaration of Independence, shaping modern governance and individual liberties. His emphasis on reason and empirical evidence also contributed significantly to the advancement of scientific and philosophical thought.
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