John Locke's Political Philosophy

Locke's Political Philosophy

Locke accepts the concept of the state of nature. However, his idea differs from Hobbes's. Locke believes that in the state of nature, individuals live together according to reason, without a common superior on Earth to judge between them. Conflicts, leading to a state of war, arise when force is used outside the bounds of right.

According to Locke, the state of nature is governed by a law, the law of nature. This law teaches that all individuals are equal and independent. This principle allows Locke to justify the existence of natural rights.

Locke also argued that humans have a strong inclination to live in society, leading him to assert that society is inherent in human nature. The first form of social grouping is the family, while civil society satisfies more complex needs. For Locke, a society can only be considered truly human if it satisfies the needs of individuals while allowing them to preserve their freedom and natural rights.

Locke recognizes the need for a positive, accepted law established by all. This law prevents any individual from being alienated from civil status and subjected to any political power without their own consent.

Accepting civil status means relinquishing the legislative and executive powers individuals possess in the state of nature.

Locke acknowledges the possibility of a sovereign behaving tyrannically towards the minority. He proposes two types of covenants that establish government and grant powers to the sovereign:

• 1. An individual becomes part of political society by accepting the decisions made by the majority of the community members.
• 2. The members of society decide to entrust their governance to themselves, a monarchy, or an oligarchy.

In Locke's view, a political society cannot be dissolved because the pact that formed it can only disappear by the agreement of its members.

Locke believes there are ways to modify the legislature internally, leading to its dissolution. If the assembly transfers power to a prince, the legislature's function has changed, and it must be dissolved. It may also be dissolved if the legislature abandons its office or acts against the interests of the citizens.

In cases where the government is dissolved, rebellion is justified. Therefore, there must always be a power to defend collective interests against rebellion.