Which principles did Locke lay out in his Two Treatises on Government? (Select all that apply.)
Government exists to protect the rights of the people.
There should always be three branches of government to create a system of checks and balances.
People should be able to vote for their leaders.
There are some basic rights that exist independent of government.
All men are created equal.
The correct answer and explanation is :
The correct principles laid out by John Locke in Two Treatises of Government are:
✅ Government exists to protect the rights of the people.
✅ There are some basic rights that exist independent of government.
✅ All men are created equal.
Explanation:
John Locke, a 17th-century English philosopher, greatly influenced modern political thought, particularly ideas about democracy, individual rights, and limited government. His Two Treatises of Government (1689) challenged the idea of absolute monarchy and laid the foundation for constitutional government.
- Government Exists to Protect the Rights of the People
Locke argued that government is not divinely ordained but exists by the consent of the people to serve them. Its primary role is to protect natural rights, including life, liberty, and property. If a government fails in this duty, people have the right to overthrow it. - There Are Some Basic Rights That Exist Independent of Government
Locke introduced the idea of natural rights, which exist even in a state of nature before any government is established. These rights include life, liberty, and property, which no ruler or law should violate. - All Men Are Created Equal
Locke believed in natural equality, meaning all people are born with the same fundamental rights. He rejected the idea that kings have a divine right to rule over others. Instead, political power should be based on the consent of the governed.
Incorrect Options:
❌ There should always be three branches of government to create a system of checks and balances.
This idea comes from Montesquieu, not Locke. Locke supported separation of powers but did not explicitly define three branches.
❌ People should be able to vote for their leaders.
While Locke supported government by consent, he did not advocate for full democracy as we know it today. His ideas were more focused on property-owning individuals having a say.
Here is an illustration of John Locke writing in his study, reflecting his contributions to political philosophy.