Political Thinkers - Locke

Deeply religious; considered one of the most influential political thinkers even today.
Part of the primary intellectual strength of the Western canon of thinking.

Humans are born free, but freedom is not absolute.
- There is liberty, but not a state of license.
- Boundaries exist, and the ultimate authority is God.
Humans have equality under law, but law defines the limits of action.
Everyone has the right to enforce the law — this enforcement creates the State of Law.

Law is essential for human coexistence.
Everyone is obliged to follow the law of nature.
- Humans are equal and independent, but cannot act arbitrarily toward others.
- Cannot mistreat, mislead, or harm others without justification.
Principle: Humans do not belong solely to themselves; we have responsibilities beyond personal will.
Purpose of law: To maintain order, justice, and the larger good as dictated by divine authority.