Theory Review Set 2

IDST Ch 2 Montesquieu (1689-1755)
Explain how Vico is a transitional figure between medieval thinking and modern thinking.
What is meant by “seeking laws” of society?
What is an “ideal-type”? How does the discovery of type lead to the ability to discern the forces that lead to such a type?
Montesquieu claimed that sociocultural variables determine forms of government, laws, and other institutions. Explain.
What is the source of human freedom for Montesquieu?
What is the nature of human nature according to Montesquieu?
What did Montesquieu mean by “spirit”?
What was Montesquieu’s contribution to what later would be know as the sociology of knowledge?
Explain Montesquieu’s classification of societies and his conception of laws?
IDST Ch 3 Rousseau (1712-1778)
Explain Rousseau’s notion of man in a state of nature?
Explain the difference between Rousseau’s state of nature and Hobbes’ notion of natural man depicted in his Leviathan?
What is the source of The State and War according to Rousseau?
What is the “general will”? How does Rousseau’s social contract differ from Hobbes’?
How is Rousseau’s contribution seen as a forerunner of sociology?