John Locke (1632-1704): Father of Classical Liberalism
John Locke, a prominent English philosopher, laid the groundwork for classical liberalism through his influential works and ideas. His theories on government, human nature, and individual rights continue to shape modern political thought.
Highlight: Locke's "Two Treatises of Government" is considered a cornerstone of classical liberal philosophy.
Key Quotes and Ideas:
Locke emphasized the importance of freedom and the role of government in preserving it:
Quote: "The end of law is not to abolish or restrain, but to preserve and enlarge freedom."
He also stressed the significance of property rights and individual autonomy:
Quote: "Every man has a property in his own person. This nobody has a right to, but himself."
John Locke's main ideas on human nature, society, and government include:
- Humans are rational beings guided by self-interest but capable of considering others.
- Society predates the state, with natural laws and rights existing before formal authority.
- Limited government is necessary to protect individual freedoms.
- The state is formed through a social contract, with citizens consenting to be governed.
- Property rights are fundamental and derived from one's labor.
Definition: Social Contract - An implicit agreement among individuals to form a society and submit to state authority in exchange for protection of rights.
Locke's philosophy heavily influenced the US Declaration of Independence and contributed to revolutionary thinking in the UK and France.
Example: The concept of "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness" in the US Declaration of Independence echoes Locke's emphasis on natural rights.
