Second Treatise of Civil Government Essay Example

part of a faith-based community who strive to please God and live by principles derived from the Bible. He frequently references these concepts in hopes of connecting with individuals willing to embark on a challenging journey towards leading an upright life. Being a prominent thinker such as Locke, he actively seeks intellectual discourse with other like-minded individuals, thus directing this treatise towards intellectuals of his time.

Locke's treatise introduction is significant as it displays the author's desire to explore the main topic and his profound ideas. Of particular importance is Locke's assertion that Adam lacked authority or dominion over his offspring or the world, which carries implications for students of history and political science.

"[2] Locke's statements have caused a stir in the elite English society. The impact of his words will eventually be felt by the British Empire, which spans across the globe. Locke's opening statements challenge centuries of held tradition and beliefs of an unbroken line of authority passed down through generations by the nobility and clergy. This excuse conveniently justifies the absolute power held by those already accustomed to it. Historically, the ruling class has been able to abuse their subjects without consequence, leaving the common folk powerless."

According to John Locke, behaving cruelly and unfairly is unnatural, as he argues that divinely ordained morality dictates that all individuals are equal and independent, and thus should not harm, restrict freedom or seize possessions from one another. In comparing Locke's theory to 17th century England's politically correct ideas, it is worth considering the warning in a popular section of the Book of Samuel, where God cautions against the dangers of absolute power as ancient Israel turned

away from God and sought a mortal king.

Through the prophet Samuel, it was declared that the king would exert control over various aspects of his subjects' lives, including their sons being enlisted as chariot servants and soldiers, while others would be tasked with agricultural duties. Additionally, their daughters would become cooks and bakers for the king, and he would claim ownership of their best lands and flocks. Ultimately, the king would even subject them to slavery. This prediction has proven true not only for Israel, but also for any society ruled by a single individual. In John Locke's England, it was evident that power could corrupt even those not entitled to it. Despite this historical precedent, Locke believed in an alternative path to creating a just society ruled by God.

According to Locke, it is unjust for some individuals to have power over others indefinitely and even God is aware of this natural order. Locke wants to change the current situation. The land that became America existed before Englishmen arrived in the 17th century and was inhabited by various tribes. In certain areas, America was regarded as a source of tradeable goods by many people.

Although many groups claimed parts of the continent, none were able to completely dominate it. However, everything changed when the English Pilgrims arrived, seeking to establish their New England as a refuge from religious divides, financial struggles, and conflicts. Succeeding in crossing the Atlantic on the Mayflower, the Puritans paved the way for subsequent settlers. By the next generation, these new Pilgrims were already familiar with John Locke's concepts.

The impact of John Locke’s Second Treatise of Civil Government transcended his own

time, as evidenced by its publication in New England and influence on the Founding Fathers’ creation of the American constitution. It is plausible that those who came after 1690 brought copies of Locke’s work to the New World, leading to aftershocks felt across the Atlantic and ultimately shaping the fate of the newly created Union of sovereign states in America. Despite America's war for independence, Locke's influence continued to resonate beyond his native land.

The start of his work is marked by the slow infiltration of the treatise's words into the foundation of the newly formed nation. The upcoming war is not caused by an external threat, but rather by long-standing ideas that have brewed for years. The Civil War is fueled by John Locke's influence, particularly in regards to the issue of slavery. To grasp the feelings of both black individuals and their supporters, it is crucial to read an account of the atrocities committed within the slave trading industry.

An incident recounted by Ira Berlin illustrates the mentality of a Virginian slave owner who was accustomed to buying and inspecting slaves based on their potential usefulness, having previously owned hundreds of slaves. This treatment would undoubtedly have been distressing for those who survived the treacherous transatlantic voyage. If they had access to John Locke's treatise, their unease may have been more profound. The transition from the Medieval Ages to the Age of Reason was a tumultuous period in European history marked by schisms and civil wars as noted by Edmund Sears Morgan. These events prompted people to reassess their relationships with each other and engage in heated debates and violent conflicts to promote competing

ideas.

During the shift from one era to another, a group of influential figures were pivotal in this process. Among them was John Locke, who gained recognition as a brilliant mind during Europe's modernization period. His exceptional capacity for handling complex information enabled him to reveal intricate and profound patterns, which is evident in his work, the Second Treatise of Civil Government. Interestingly enough, Locke wrote in a manner that made it understandable even for ordinary individuals, including principles that were once concealed. His ideas posed a challenge to authoritarian figures and inspired American aspirations for independence from British rule; they also provided encouragement for those advocating for abolition over a century later.

Something happened that changed the world forever.