Critique of Patriarchalism and Divine Right

Locke systematically refutes Sir Robert Filmer's theory that political power derives from Adam's fatherhood and divine donation, arguing such claims are unfounded and lead to slavery.

The first treatise is explicitly dedicated to detecting and overthrowing Filmer's patriarchal and divine right principles.

Locke systematically refutes Filmer's patriarchal theory that political power derives from Adam's fatherhood and divine grant.

Locke begins his systematic critique of Filmer's patriarchal theory, which derives absolute monarchy from Adam's supposed sovereignty.

Locke systematically dismantles Filmer's identification of paternal authority with royal authority, criticizing the lack of definition and proof for 'fatherly authority' and its supposed divine right.