John Locke

Philosophical Liberalism

One of the foundational ideas of liberalism is the idea of tolerance.

Philosophical Liberalism

By hoping to end religious and political strife through an adherence to the rule of reason, it hoped to liberate new energies (previously wasted on war) for commerce and science.

John Locke (1632-1704)

We must hold our truths gently and be sure that little “truths” do not block our openness to the larger “Truth.”

Locke’s Theory of Knowledge

Locke believed that we come into the world like a clean sheet of paper. We don’t have innate ideas. Although we do have innate rational abilities that work on the material that gets printed on the sheets of paper. And that material is experience.

Locke’s Theory of Knowledge The truth most likely exists between the two extremes of rationalism and empiricism. Psychology has found that we are not just products of nature or nurture, but some mixture of the two together.

Locke’s Political Philosophy

Locke writes: “The state of nature has a law to govern it, which obliges everyone: 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.”

Locke’s Political Philosophy Locke wrote that the branches of government must be separate to prevent abuse of power. But what happens when those branches disagree with each other?

Conclusion

Locke’s most lasting influence is on political theory as it is embedded in Western constitutions that feature things like amendable laws and check and balances.

Conclusion

It would be interesting to speculate what his theories on property would be now given the unbelievable wealth of international corporations and what his thoughts would be on an international social contract.