What is Locke's main argument

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In summary, Locke's political philosophy includes the belief that the government must have the consent of the governed and that people have a natural right to life, liberty, and property. He also argues that humans have the moral right to overthrow a government if necessary and that the government should serve a minimal, non-intrusive role in people's lives. Additionally, Locke's philosophy implies the existence of a higher power from whom natural rights are bestowed and prioritizes moral codes and freedom of religion.
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vptran84
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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.
 
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vptran84 said:
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.
 
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vptran84 said:
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.
 

1. What is the main argument of John Locke's philosophy?

The main argument of John Locke's philosophy is that individuals are born with a blank slate, or "tabula rasa", and their experiences and environment shape their identity and understanding of the world. Therefore, knowledge and ideas are not innate, but rather acquired through sensory experiences.

2. How does Locke's argument differ from other philosophers?

Locke's argument differs from other philosophers, such as Descartes, who believed in innate ideas and knowledge. Locke rejected the concept of innate knowledge and argued that all ideas and knowledge come from experience and observation.

3. What is Locke's stance on human nature?

Locke believed that human nature is fundamentally good and individuals have the ability to reason and make moral decisions. He also believed that individuals have natural rights, such as life, liberty, and property, which should be protected by the government.

4. How does Locke's argument relate to political theory?

Locke's argument also has implications in political theory. He believed in the concept of social contract, where individuals give up some of their rights to the government in exchange for protection and stability. If the government fails to protect these rights, the people have the right to overthrow it.

5. What is the significance of Locke's argument in modern society?

Locke's argument has had a significant impact on modern society and the concept of individual rights and democracy. His ideas have influenced the Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution, and his views on the importance of reason and tolerance have shaped modern political and social thought.

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