What Other Arguments Exist in Locke's Political Philosophy?

[vptran84]

Are there any other arguments regarding Locke's political philosophy? besides the belief that the government could only exist with the consent of the governed. and the belief that people have to the natural right to life, liberty, and property.

any help would be appreciated.

 

[Rade]

Are there any other arguments regarding Locke's political philosophy? besides the belief that the government could only exist with the consent of the governed. and the belief that people have to the natural right to life, liberty, and property.
any help would be appreciated.

Of great historical importance to the founding of the USA is the section "Of The Dissolution of Government" in his paper "Of civil government: Second Treatise, 1689. Locke not only established the reasons why humans set up a state (government), but also the conditions under which humans are morally justified to overthrow what they have set up. Also, it is clear that Locke would have little use with modern "social wellfare"--he argued a position that the state should serve a "negative" role, to stay out of peoples affairs, and that the role of the state is to maintain peace and order.

 

[John_Charles_Webb]

Are there any other arguments regarding Locke's political philosophy? besides the belief that the government could only exist with the consent of the governed. and the belief that people have to the natural right to life, liberty, and property.
any help would be appreciated.

Locke's political philosophy implies a 'natural order' (God / Creator) which includes 'natural rights'. Thomas Jefferson determined that those 'rights' are "inalienable". However, a governmental template (e.g. constitution) does not require the inclusion of 'rights' especially if there is no acknowledgment of a higher power (God). Other forms of government state that ALL rights and privileges eminate from the state.

So, Locke's philosophy requires some type of Supreme Being from whom natural rights are bestowed. It also implies that any (worship) Supreme Being takes priority over any governmental entity and therefore includes (implies) a moral code... which implies, freedom of religion as a necessary component.