Locke

political thinker

Why is John Locke an important political thinker?

He is one of the most influential thinkers in the Western political canon.

How does religion influence Locke’s thought?

Locke is deeply religious, and God is the ultimate moral authority in his theory.

Are humans born free according to Locke?

Yes — humans are born free, but freedom is not absolute.

What does Locke mean by “no state of license”?

Freedom does not mean doing whatever one wants without limits.

What ultimately limits human freedom?

God’s law.

Are humans equal according to Locke?

Yes — humans are equal under the law.

Does equality mean unlimited freedom?

No — law defines the boundaries of action.

What gives law its authority?

Divine (God-given) moral order.

What is the law of nature in Locke’s theory?

A moral law given by God that all humans are obligated to follow.

Who must obey the law of nature?

Everyone, without exception.

What does the law of nature prohibit?

Acting arbitrarily, harming, misleading, or mistreating others without justification.

What is the “State of Law”?

A condition where law governs human interaction.

Why is law essential for humans?

It makes coexistence possible.

Who enforces the law in Locke’s view?

Everyone has the right to enforce it.

What happens when everyone enforces the law?

It creates the State of Law.

Why is enforcement necessary?

Without enforcement, law has no practical effect.

Can humans treat others however they want?

No — humans are equal and independent, but not free to act arbitrarily.

What actions are forbidden without justification?

Harming, misleading, or abusing others.

Do humans belong only to themselves?

No — humans have responsibilities beyond personal will.

Where do these responsibilities come from?

God’s authority and the law of nature.

What is the purpose of law according to Locke?

• Maintain order

• Preserve justice

• Protect the common good

What ultimately defines the “larger good”?

Divine authority.

How would you summarize Locke’s political theory?

Humans are free and equal under God’s law, but freedom exists within moral and legal boundaries, not without restraint.

How is Locke different from Hobbes?

• Hobbes: law exists only through sovereign power

• Locke: law exists before government, through God

How is Locke different from Rousseau?

• Rousseau: morality develops through society

• Locke: morality exists prior to society, given by God