locke

Humans in the state of nature

Possess natural rights such as life liberty and property

Social contract for Locke

• Individuals do not alienate sovereignty

• They entrust power to a government as an agent To
  Enforce law

• Protect property

• Secure rights

Decisions of the government must follow

The will Of the majority

Rules for the government

• Government power is conditional

• Exists only to serve the common good

• Political authority comes from consent

• Decisions follow the will of the majority

There is a right to revolt only when

The government:

• Violates natural rights

• Acts beyond the law

Absolute power threatens …

Liberty

Humans are moral beings…..

Capable of cooperation

Natural rights

Pre-political rights held by individuals in the state of nature, especially life, liberty, and property.

State of nature

A state of perfect liberty and equality, governed by natural law, where individuals possess natural rights.

Natural law

A moral law accessible through reason that teaches that no one should harm another in their life, liberty, or property.

Property

The central purpose of political society; includes lives, liberties, and estates, which government exists to preserve.

Inconvienice of the state of nature

Problems arising because individuals act as judge, jury, and executioner in their own cases, leading to bias and conflict.