Which French nobleman advocated for a blend of monarchy and democracy?

The correct answer is Baron de Montesquieu. He was a prominent French philosopher whose ideas were foundational in the development of modern political theory. Montesquieu advocated for the separation of powers within a government, which he believed would prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful. His concept of a blended government combined elements of monarchy, aristocracy, and democracy, allowing for checks and balances that would protect individual liberties and limit government tyranny. This nuanced view greatly influenced democratic thought and the structure of many modern governments.

The other figures mentioned had different focuses. John Locke, for example, emphasized natural rights and the social contract but did not specifically advocate for a blend of monarchy and democracy. Abbe Sieyes is known for his work during the French Revolution, primarily addressing the role of the Third Estate and advocating for a more representative government, without explicitly merging monarchy and democracy. Voltaire, meanwhile, was a strong advocate for civil liberties and freedom of expression but did not articulate a specific governmental structure that combined monarchy and democracy.