Influencing the Founding Fathers
John Locke is considered by many to have had a significant influence over the Founding Fathers of the U.S. Constituion, specifically based on the language and content of the Declaration of Independence. As a political philosopher, Locke contributed to many of the ideas that we hold dear in our American legal system (i.e., Natural Rights, representative government, property rights of individuals, "life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness").
(1) In your own words, what are "Natural Rights"? Please explain.
(2) Please explain why this is important to individuals and businesses.
(3) How does the U.S. Constitution protect and/or inhibit the exercise of these "Natural Rights"? Please explain.