John Locke's Second Treatise of Government (1689) — arguing that political authority is derived from the consent of the governed, that individuals have natural rights to life, liberty, and property, and that rebellion against tyrannical government is justified.
Provides the foundational argument of liberal democracy — government derives its just powers from the consent of the governed, and when it violates natural rights, the people have the right of revolution — which Jefferson largely paraphrased in the Declaration of Independence.
Discussing
Ask anything about Second Treatise — their ideas, influences, contradictions, legacy.
Sign in to start a conversation.