Locke or Hobbes?

John Locke and Thomas Hobbes; two of the greatest early philosophers in western history. The two pondered on ideas like human nature, the role of rulers, and eventually became two of the major contributors to the Social Contract Theory. However, like all good philosophers, both men had differing worldviews; some might say conflicting views, even. So, based on the many works of both men, what they said, theorized, and published, which one do you side with? John Locke, the father of modern Liberalism; or, Thomas Hobbes, the Monarchist?

It is difficult for me to personally side with one philosopher over the other entirely. Both individuals have very strong arguments for their views, and neither is wholly wrong in any way. Hobbes puts forth some hard truths, while also displaying little interest in what many of today's societies are composed of. Locke, alternatively, provides a more positive image of a number of mankind's issues, but fails to realize the possibility, or even reality, of man's violent inclinations. 

Having to pick sides between philosophers, whose ideas each apply to a different form of society, government, and even person, is difficult; but, based on my own values, and the values instilled upon me, I would have to side with John Locke. 

Locke's opinions on issues like the Social Contract, rights, and the role of the state is much more in line with my own pattern of thinking. Hobbes' views are too harsh and restrictive, which is hardly surprising being that he prefers monarchies over democracies, and he simply has too little faith in the society and too much trust in monarchs. Locke sees the world as it works in most nations today. The people, who are endowed with many rights, being governed by people who represent them; "by the people, for the people" and all that. The people give their governments meaning, and, in return, those governments give the people protection. The United States has operated on this principle, more or less, for the extent of its existence; and many other nations, even those with a constitutional monarchy, have followed suit. It is because, I believe, so many nations based their governmental structures on the works of John Locke, that we now have fewer dictators and cruel leaders than ever before. Hobbes said that all democracies are doomed because of their innate and deep contradictions, but I think we will be doing just fine for many decades to come.