Second Treatise of Government by John Locke

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About this eBook

Author Locke, John, 1632-1704
Title Second Treatise of Government
Note Wikipedia page about this book: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Two_Treatises_of_Government
Note Reading ease score: 33.4 (College-level). Difficult to read.
Credits Dave Gowan and Chuck Greif
Summary "Second Treatise of Government" by John Locke is a foundational philosophical text concerning political theory, published in the late 17th century. The treatise critiques the divine right of kings and presents the concept of government by consent, positing the importance of individual rights and the role of the state in protecting these rights. The opening of the treatise sets the stage for Locke's arguments against the patriarchal forms of authority upheld by proponents of Sir Robert Filmer. Locke asserts that Adam did not possess inherent authority over his progeny and challenges the legitimacy of rulers who base their power on ancestral succession. He introduces key ideas regarding the state of nature, the role of consent in political authority, and the need for a civil society to maintain order and property rights. Locke emphasizes that individuals are born equal and free and that political power should derive from the collective agreement of those governed, aiming primarily for the public good. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
Language English
LoC Class JC: Political science: Political theory
Subject Political science -- Early works to 1800
Subject Toleration -- Early works to 1800
Subject Liberty -- Early works to 1800
Category Text
EBook-No. 7370
Release Date
Most Recently Updated Dec 25, 2021
Copyright Status Public domain in the USA.
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