John Locke’s ‘Second Treatise of Government’ explores the foundations of political philosophy, emphasizing natural rights and the social contract. Published in 1690, this work argues for the legitimacy of government based on the consent of the governed. Locke discusses the role of property, the limits of governmental power, and the right of the people to revolt against tyranny. This text is essential for students of political science, philosophy, and history, providing insights into modern democratic thought. The edition referenced is the unabridged original text, free of copyright, making it accessible for all readers interested in Locke’s influential ideas.

Key Points

  • Analyzes the concept of natural rights and their implications for government authority.
  • Explains the social contract theory and its relevance to political legitimacy.
  • Discusses the right to revolution against unjust governments.
  • Examines the relationship between property ownership and political power.
newtopiccyclegrowin
Author:John Locke
141 pages
Language:English
Type:Book
Anthropology
newtopiccyclegrowin
Author:John Locke
141 pages
Language:English
Type:Book
Anthropology
317
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S E C O N D T R E AT I S E O F
G O V E R N M E N T
by JOHN LOCKE
Digitized by Dave Gowan. John Locke’s “Second Treatise
of Government” was published in 1690. The complete
unabridged text has been republished several times in edited
commentaries. This text is recovered entire from the
paperback book, “John Locke Second Treatise of
Government”, Edited, with an Introduction, By C.B.
McPherson, Hackett Publishing Company, Indianapolis and
Cambridge, 1980. None of the McPherson edition is
included in the Etext below; only the original words
contained in the 1690 Locke text is included. The 1690
edition text is free of copyright.
TWO TREATISES OF GOVERNMENT
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End of Document
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FAQs

What is the main purpose of government according to Locke?
The main purpose of government, as articulated by John Locke, is the preservation of property. Locke defines property broadly, including life, liberty, and estates. He argues that individuals enter into society to secure these properties and that the government is established to protect them from infringement by others. The legislative power must act for the public good, ensuring that the rights of individuals are safeguarded against any arbitrary power.
How does Locke define political power?
Locke defines political power as the right to make laws with penalties, including death, for the regulation and preservation of property. This power is derived from the consent of the governed and is meant to serve the public good. He emphasizes that political power is not arbitrary but must be exercised according to established laws that protect the rights and properties of individuals within society.
What distinguishes tyranny from legitimate government in Locke's view?
In Locke's view, tyranny is the exercise of power beyond right, where the ruler acts for personal gain rather than for the public good. Legitimate government, on the other hand, is established to protect the rights and properties of its citizens. When a ruler uses power to oppress or harm the people, he becomes a tyrant, and the people have the right to resist such tyranny. This distinction underscores the importance of government acting in the best interests of its citizens.
What conditions lead to the dissolution of government according to Locke?
Locke outlines several conditions that can lead to the dissolution of government. These include the alteration of the legislative power, the hindrance of the legislative from meeting, and the delivery of the people into the subjection of a foreign power. When the legislative acts contrary to its trust or fails to protect the rights of the people, it loses its legitimacy, and the people have the right to establish a new government.
How does Locke view the relationship between the legislative and executive powers?
Locke views the legislative and executive powers as distinct but interrelated components of government. The legislative power is supreme and responsible for making laws, while the executive power is tasked with enforcing those laws. He argues that the legislative should not always be in session, as laws can be made in a short time, but the executive must always be present to ensure the laws are executed. This separation helps prevent the concentration of power and protects the rights of individuals.
What is Locke's stance on the right to resist a tyrant?
Locke asserts that the people have the right to resist a tyrant when their government acts against their interests or violates their rights. If a ruler abuses power, the people are justified in opposing him, as the authority of the government is derived from the consent of the governed. This right to resist is fundamental to maintaining the social contract and ensuring that the government serves its intended purpose of protecting the people's rights.
What does Locke say about the consent of the governed?
Locke emphasizes that the legitimacy of government is based on the consent of the governed. Individuals must agree to form a political society and submit to its laws for it to be considered legitimate. This consent can be explicit or tacit, but it is essential for the establishment of a government that acts in the public's best interest. Without this consent, any government is deemed illegitimate and may be resisted.

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