Two Treatises of Government · Question
How does Two Treatises of Government develop the theme of Natural Rights and Liberty?
Answer
Two Treatises of Government by John Locke develops Natural Rights and Liberty across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
Locke argues that all men are born free and equal, possessing natural rights to life, liberty, and property, which government must protect and cannot arbitrarily violate.
Locke implicitly argues for natural rights and liberty by denying that any man is born into subjection to an absolute monarch.
Locke asserts the natural liberty and equality of mankind, directly opposing Filmer's claim that no man is born free.
Locke counters Filmer's claim that 'men are not naturally free' by asserting that governments are formed by the consent of men using their reason to unite into society, implying a natural state of freedom.
Evidence in the book
- Book I: Of Government
Locke implicitly argues for natural rights and liberty by denying that any man is born into subjection to an absolute monarch.
- I
Locke asserts the natural liberty and equality of mankind, directly opposing Filmer's claim that no man is born free.
- II: Of Paternal and Regal Power
Locke counters Filmer's claim that 'men are not naturally free' by asserting that governments are formed by the consent of men using their reason to unite into society, implying a natural state of freedom.
- Of Adam's Title to Sovereignty by Creation
Locke defends the possibility of natural freedom of mankind, arguing it does not contradict Adam's creation.
- Of Adam’s Title to Sovereignty, by Donation, Gen. 1:28
Locke asserts that God gave the earth to all mankind in common, implying a natural right to subsistence and liberty from arbitrary power.
- Of Adam’s Title to Sovereignty by Fatherhood
Locke argues that men are naturally free and equal, rejecting Filmer's claim that birth imposes subjection.
- Of Monarchy, by Inheritance from Adam
Locke grounds property rights in the natural right to self-preservation, which is shared equally by all individuals, not exclusive to a monarch.
- Book II: Of Civil Government
Locke asserts that individuals possess inherent natural rights to life, liberty, and property.
