How was the declaration of independence a reflection of immediate political circumstances?

Question

Was Jefferson motivated more by those circumstances, or by enlightenment philosophies?

Answer 1

If by immediate, you mean circumstances preceding the American Revolution, then both. If they didn't have those enlightenment philosophies, then the Revolution wouldn't have happened, at least at that time. But if the colonists weren't being taxed without representation and other reasons, then the Revolution may not have begun at that time. But I have to say it was inevitable. Western Europe was moving toward less Monarchy power and more representative power. And would spread to the American colonies. So the primary influence was the Enlightenment.

Answer 2

Time changes and the declaration of independence is already outmoded. Thus, the present society must be properly dealt with by the government.