Two Treatises of Government

Definition

The Two Treatises of Government, written by John Locke in 1689, is a foundational text of Enlightenment philosophy that outlines Locke's theories on natural rights, government, and the social contract. The first treatise critiques the divine right of kings, while the second asserts that legitimate government is based on the consent of the governed and aims to protect individual rights such as life, liberty, and property.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Locke's work greatly influenced modern political thought and laid the groundwork for democratic governments based on individual rights.
2. The first treatise is primarily a rebuttal against Sir Robert Filmer's 'Patriarcha', which argued for absolute monarchy through divine right.
3. In the second treatise, Locke introduces the idea that government derives its power from the consent of the governed, establishing a key principle of democracy.
4. Locke's emphasis on property as a natural right was revolutionary and has had lasting implications on property law and economic theory.
5. The Two Treatises became a significant source for later political documents, including the United States Declaration of Independence and the French Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen.

Review Questions

• How does Locke's critique of absolute monarchy in the first treatise influence modern views on governance?
  • Locke's first treatise challenges the concept of absolute monarchy by arguing against the divine right of kings. By dismantling this idea, Locke sets a precedent for questioning authoritarian rule and advocating for a system where leaders are accountable to their people. This critique not only reshaped political thought during his time but also paved the way for contemporary democratic principles that emphasize limited government authority and accountability.
• Discuss how Locke's concept of the social contract differs from previous theories of governance.
  • Locke's social contract theory differs significantly from earlier ideas by emphasizing that legitimate government must be founded on consent from its citizens rather than divine authority or hereditary rights. He argues that individuals willingly surrender certain freedoms to a governing body in exchange for protection of their natural rights. This shift from passive acceptance of authority to active participation in governance represents a pivotal change in how societies understand political legitimacy and individual agency.
• Evaluate the lasting impact of the Two Treatises of Government on contemporary democratic ideologies and practices.
  • The Two Treatises of Government has had an enduring influence on modern democratic ideologies by establishing foundational principles such as individual rights, government accountability, and the importance of consent in governance. These concepts have been woven into numerous political systems worldwide, fostering frameworks that prioritize citizen engagement and civil liberties. The ideals set forth by Locke continue to resonate today, encouraging ongoing discussions about human rights, personal freedoms, and the role of government in society.

Related terms

Natural Rights: Fundamental rights that every individual possesses by virtue of being human, including life, liberty, and property.

Social Contract: A theoretical agreement in which individuals collectively agree to form a government that protects their rights in exchange for some personal freedoms.

Enlightenment: An intellectual movement in the 17th and 18th centuries emphasizing reason, individualism, and skepticism of traditional authority.