Political Philosophy of John Locke
Political Philosophy of John Locke
Political Philosophy of John Locke
Research: What is John Lockes political philosophy with regards to the following:
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- Government (Why? How? Purpose?) - Natural Rights - Social Contract - Right of Rebellion
John Locke
(1632 - 1704)
What would human society be like in a state of nature? Most people would be reasonable, good, and respectful. Individual self-interest may drive some people to abuse others.
John Locke
(1632 - 1704)
Natural Rights
...rights to life, liberty, and property are natural rights given by God that no man can take away.
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John Locke
(1632 - 1704)
Right to Govern
[Legitimate] governments do not exist until people have given their consent to create them.
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Should the right to govern come from the consent of the people or the ability of the strong and capable?
John Locke
(1632 - 1704)
Right of Rebellion
Is rebellion against a govt acceptable if it fails to protect ones right to life, liberty, and property?
John Locke
(1632 - 1704)
Purpose of Government
The main purpose of government is to protect our natural rights (life, liberty, & property) from a state of nature.
How good of a job is our government ! doing today to protect our natural rights? Where is it strong? Where is it weak?
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John Locke
(1632 - 1704)
...weaker people would try to protect their rights by joining together against the strong
In order for people to have their natural rights to life, liberty, and property secured...
liberty (freedom to make their own decisions), and property (possessions and economic benets) in a state of nature.
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consent, therefore lawful govt doesnt exist w/o the peoples consent
contract and rights of individuals, the people have the right to resist and rebel in order to establish a new and better contract.