How do the philosophies of John Locke and Jean-Jacques Rousseau influence first generation human rights?

Abstract

This dissertation will discuss the philosophical concepts of John Locke and Jean-Jacques Rousseau, with a focus on their philosophy of human rights. Each philosopher will be covered in adequate depth, through the referencing of their philosophical texts which relate to their philosophy of human rights. This is to elucidate how their ideas influenced first generation human rights, and on what basis each philosopher justifies the existence of such rights. Their philosophies will be compared to practical examples in the form of legislation and constitutions that each respective philosopher influenced.