Emergence of Middle Class


 
 
Concept Explanation
 

Emergence of Middle Class

Emergence of Middle Class: In the 18th century, a new social group emerged who were known as the middle class. They had become rich by expanding of overseas trade and manufacturing goods. In addition to merchants and manufacturers, there were lawyers and administrative officials, who were educated. They believed that no group of society should be privileged by birth.

Role of Philosophers On Emergence of Middle Class: Philosophers like john Locke, Jean Jacques Rousseau and Montesquieu considered the middle class was sole responsible for revolution. They spread the ideas of Freedom, equal laws and oppurtunities for all.

  • John Locke in his book ' TWO TREATISES OF GOVERNMENT ' criticised  the  doctrine of the divine and absolute right of monarch.
  • Rousseau carried the idea forward, proposing a form of government based on a social contract between people and their representatives.
  • Rousseau in his book, ' THE SOCIAL CONTRACT', argued against the idea that monarchs were divinely empowered to legislate , as he asserted that only the people , who were sovereign, had that all- powerful right.
  • Montesquieu in his book ' THE SPIRIT OF THE LAWS' stressed the concept of separation of powers between the legislature, the executive and the judiciary.
  • His concept of separation of powers was a great instrument against the despotic autocratic rule of french emperor.
  • Sample Questions
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    Question : 1

    Which of the following played an important role in generating anger and protest against the system of privileges prevalent in the 18th century ?

    (i) Members of the third estate like lawyers and administrative officials

    (ii) Members of the first and second

    (iii) Ideas of philosophers named John Locke and Jean Jacques Rousseau

    Right Option : D
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    Explanation
    Question : 2

    What profession was held by middle class people?

    Right Option : C
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    Explanation
    Question : 3

    Which social group emerged in 18th century ?

    Right Option : B
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    Explanation
     
     


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