Dissenter

Real World Example

During the Age of Absolutism (1550-1800), dissenters were individuals who opposed the absolute power of monarchs and often advocated for religious or political reforms. One famous dissenter was John Locke, a philosopher who challenged the idea of divine right and absolute monarchy, promoting instead the concept of a government based on the consent of the governed and natural rights. Locke's ideas were critical during this time because they encouraged people to question authority and demand more freedoms, influencing movements like the Enlightenment. Today, Locke's contributions continue to inspire democratic values and human rights, as seen in documents like the U.S. Constitution and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. For example, when people protest for freedom of speech or religion, they are echoing the principles that dissenters like Locke championed centuries ago.