The philosophy that influenced legal systems around the world based on natural law is rooted in the Enlightenment thoughts of philosophers like John Locke and Thomas Hobbes. Natural law posits that certain rights are inherent and universal, not granted by government but existing within human nature. This ideology laid the foundation for human rights law, emphasizing moral principles that govern human conduct. Influencing legal theorists, this philosophy carried through major documents, like the U.S. Declaration of Independence, encapsulating ideas of liberty, equality, and justice. As a result, natural law continues to inform legal systems and advocacy for individual rights internationally.