Overview
This lecture covers John Locke's major philosophical contributions to education, governance, and religious tolerance, emphasizing his arguments for religious freedom and legitimate government authority.
Locke's Background
- John Locke was born in Somerset, England, in 1632.
- He studied at Westminster School during the English Civil War and later attended Oxford to study medicine.
- Locke became connected with the influential politician Antony Ashley Cooper and joined his household.
Religious Tolerance
- Locke addressed the issue of handling religious disagreement in society.
- In his 1667 essay "A Letter Concerning Toleration," Locke argued for religious liberty based on three points:
- Earthly authorities cannot reliably evaluate the truth of different religions.
- Forced conversion is ineffective because belief cannot be compelled by violence.
- Religious coercion creates more social disorder than toleration.
- Locke maintained that the state's role was to ensure peaceful society, not to control individual souls.
- Religion was considered a personal matter, with churches as voluntary groups.
- Locke's ideas led to the decline of persecuting individuals for their beliefs in England.
The Two Treatises of Government
- Locke challenged the view that political authority comes directly from God.
- He refuted Thomas Hobbes' argument that absolute rulers prevent chaos and have unchecked power.
- Locke agreed with Hobbes on the existence of a State of Nature before governments.
- He argued the State of Nature was generally peaceful, not chaotic.
- People entering government do not surrender all rights; they retain inalienable or natural rights.
- Legitimate government must respect these natural rights.
Key Terms & Definitions
- State of Nature — A theoretical condition before governments, where humans live without formal authority.
- Natural Rights — Fundamental rights inherent to every individual that cannot be taken away by governments.
- Toleration — Acceptance of different religious beliefs and practices.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review Locke's "A Letter Concerning Toleration" and "Two Treatises of Government" for deeper understanding.
- Prepare notes on the differences between Locke's and Hobbes' ideas about the State of Nature.