Plot Summary Of Second Treatise Of Government By John Locke. -

Summary

John Locke's 'Second Treatise of Government' argues for the legitimacy of King William's rule through popular consent and refutes Sir Robert Filmer's ideas on divine right. Locke asserts that political power is distinct, aimed at protecting citizens' rights and property. He outlines the state of nature, where all are free and equal, and contrasts it with the state of war. He advocates for government by the consent of the governed, with checks and balances, and the right of the people to rebel against tyranny. Locke's work laid the philosophical foundation for liberalism and influenced Western political thought.

Takeaways

• 👑 John Locke begins by supporting King William's right to be king, emphasizing the importance of consent in establishing a legitimate government.
• ❌ Locke refutes Sir Robert Filmer's ideas, criticizing his writing as full of 'doubtful expressions and glib nonsense', highlighting the danger of wrong ideas about government.
• 🌳 Locke discusses the concept of political power, distinguishing it from other forms of power and explaining it as the right to make and enforce laws for the public good.
• 🏞️ He introduces the 'state of nature', where individuals are free and equal, and where the law of nature dictates that no one should harm another's life, liberty, or property.
• ⚖️ Locke asserts that in the state of nature, everyone has the right to punish those who violate natural law, as there is no organized government to do so.
• 🔒 Locke argues that civil government is necessary to control violence and establish a single judge to prevent bloodshed and maintain order.
• 🏡 He explains property rights, stating that individuals have a natural right to own what they take from nature, such as food or land they cultivate.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Locke addresses parental power, stating that it is limited and does not extend to ruling over children's lives or property, and that children are not part of society until they can think for themselves.
• 🏛️ In a commonwealth, Locke outlines the roles of the legislative, executive, and federative powers, emphasizing that they must always act for the good of the people.
• ⚔️ Locke asserts the right of the people to resist a government that does not work for their good, and to establish a new government if necessary.
• 📚 Locke's contributions to Western thought, particularly his ideas on liberalism and the social contract, have had a profound impact on political philosophy and literature.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of John Locke's Second Treatise of Government?

The main purpose of John Locke's Second Treatise of Government is to support King William's right to be king of England, to refute Sir Robert Filmer's arguments on absolute monarchy, and to discuss the nature of political power and the principles of a just government.

How does Locke argue against Filmer's claim that God gave Adam power over the world?

Locke argues against Filmer by stating that such power does not pass on to Adam's descendants and that it is difficult to prove the existence of Adam's offspring due to the passage of time, thus power cannot be derived from such a source.

What does Locke mean by 'political power'?

Locke defines 'political power' as the right to make and uphold laws that protect the Commonwealth, keep property safe, and work for the public good.

What is the state of nature according to Locke?

In the state of nature, everyone is free and equal, and there is a natural law that no one can harm another's life, liberty, health, or property.

Why do people leave the state of nature and form societies, according to Locke?

People leave the state of nature and form societies to avoid bloodshed, establish a single judge to resolve disputes, and create a system of laws to govern behavior.

What are the limits Locke places on property rights in the state of nature?

Locke places limits on property rights by stating that people should only take what they need and what they can use or consume before it spoils.

How does Locke define parental power and its limits?

Locke defines parental power as the authority parents have over their children until they are capable of understanding. This power is limited and does not extend to controlling their lives or property.

What does Locke believe is necessary for a society to be democratic?

For a society to be democratic, Locke believes there must be clear laws, a fair judge, and the ability to enforce laws and sentences.

What are the roles of the legislative, executive, and federative in a commonwealth according to Locke?

The legislative is responsible for making laws to protect the Commonwealth, the executive carries out those laws, and the federative handles war and peace with other commonwealths.

Under what conditions does Locke believe the people have the right to fight back against their government?

Locke believes the people have the right to fight back if the government does not work for the good of the Commonwealth, if it becomes tyrannical, or if it fails to protect their rights and liberties.

What is Locke's background and how did his experiences influence his writing?

Locke was born in Somerset, England, and studied at Christ Church, Oxford. His interest in medicine and his involvement in political events, such as the Glorious Revolution, influenced his philosophical views and writings, including the Two Treatises of Government.