Second Treatise of the Government

Résumé du livre

John Locke (1632-1704) is one of the world’s most important political philosophers. Considered the “father of classical liberalism,” Locke was an influential thinker during the Enlightenment period, and his ideas on philosophy and civil government inspired other major personalities, such as Voltaire, as well as many American revolutionaries – ideas that are still alive and influential today.

Throughout history, people have resisted political authority, as seen in events like the Arab Spring and during Locke’s time in the 17th century. Locke argued that resistance is justified when rulers act tyrannically, inherit power without consent, or lose the trust of the people, who alone have the right to decide when rebellion is necessary. While critics warn that dissenters may misuse this right, Locke maintained that the people are the ultimate judges of abuse. Political power, though supreme, has limits—it must protect lives and property and cannot infringe on individual freedoms. Legislators must follow majority rule but cannot act against the public good, while the executive branch’s prerogative allows for extraordinary actions only when they benefit society. Locke also distinguished parental authority, which guides children until they reason independently, from political power, which requires the consent of the governed. He rejected conquest and slavery as legitimate bases for authority, emphasizing natural liberty and justice. Ownership, he argued, arises from labor, but it must respect others’ rights, ensure shared access to resources, and avoid waste. These principles of consent, justice, and balance underpin Locke’s vision of legitimate governance.

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