The first of these two highly influential documents refutes the concept of monarchy's divine right. The second argues for a broad acceptance of alt...
read full description
reviews
Apr 21, 2007
Pierce
rated it: 
John Locke is right about more or less everything.
0 comments
like
(1 person liked it)
Dec 04, 2009
"Political power, then, I take to be a right of making laws with penalty of death..." 2
"The state of nature has a law of nature to govern it, which obliges every one; and reason, which is that law, teaches all mankind who will but consult it, that, being all equal and independent, no one ought to harm another in his life, health, liberty, or possessions." 3
"Nothing was made by God for man to spoil or destroy." 14
"For in all t More...
"The state of nature has a law of nature to govern it, which obliges every one; and reason, which is that law, teaches all mankind who will but consult it, that, being all equal and independent, no one ought to harm another in his life, health, liberty, or possessions." 3
"Nothing was made by God for man to spoil or destroy." 14
"For in all t More...
May 05, 2011
Jordan
rated it:
An excellent summary of the ideas and theories that compromise the society and culture of a capitalist republic. Though there are some details that one might dispute, it is clear that Locke is well-versed in his theories, and has an understanding of some of the truths behind human nature. An excellent place to start for anyone who is interested in beginning a study of Political Philosophy.
Feb 14, 2009
Roslyn
rated it:
This was a fascinating read. I came to understand Natural Law much better, and it caused me to re-think my parenting and my current level of involvement with local government.
I was intrigued to read several phrases here that ended up in our Declaration of Independence. So fun to read the works the Founders read as they were deciding how to form our Republic!
I was intrigued to read several phrases here that ended up in our Declaration of Independence. So fun to read the works the Founders read as they were deciding how to form our Republic!
0 comments
like
(1 person liked it)
Nov 26, 2010
Lindsey
rated it: 
Read for Senior Traditio, N-term 2010. I don't think that, as a Christian, I should strictly agree with it, although the American in me was "amen"-ing most of the way through. I did like how dense this book was--think I highlighted something on just about every page. That's how foundational this book is to understanding the foundations of the American government.
Oct 12, 2010
Aaron
rated it:
We have John Locke and this essay to thank for our fundamental beliefs in inalienable human rights and freedom from tyranny. If you want to form a real understanding of these principles, not just regurgitated talking points, then this is the book for you. Read this book!
Mar 28, 2009
Richard
rated it: 
A great read - helped to build the foundation for constitutional democracy.
Oct 11, 2011
Elizabeth
rated it:
The material might be dense but Locke writes about some very worthwhile topics that every world citizen should familiarize himself or herself with. If we all followed John Locke's ideas, this world would be far less of a mess. These are critical ideas that everyone should be at least vaguely familiar with.
Nov 27, 2009
Jill
rated it:
I learned a great deal from this book, much about natural law, paternal law and duty, about why man forms society and how legislature works and when it doesn't, about conquering and being conquered - it's really a tremendous read. There are many truths to be learned here, highly recommend it!
May 27, 2009
Russell
rated it:
This is a fantastic book that brought a lot more insight to my study of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. It's slow in some places, but overall it's well worth the time invested in reading it.
Mar 06, 2007
Brian
rated it:
Definitely one of the must-read political philosophy books. Better than Leviathan but the two must often be read in concert. The American Founding Fathers all read Locke.
Dec 27, 2007
Karl
rated it:
It's interesting to look at the foundation while the house we live in is being torn down.
Feb 12, 2012
Feb 07, 2012
Feb 03, 2012
Jan 31, 2012
Jan 30, 2012
Jan 13, 2012
