Locke was writing in opposition to a fellow called Robert Filmer. What did Filmer believe about the legitimate origins of political power? What did Locke believe about the legitimate origins of political power?
What is the “state of nature”? Has such a place ever existed? Does such a place exist now? Is it a good place or a bad place? How or why do we leave it?
If “God gave the World to Men in Common,” why does Locke believe “it cannot be supposed that he [God]
meant it should always remain in common”?
What are some of the legitimate functions of government? What are some of the things legitimate government cannot do, according to Locke? Pay special attention to the role of government, according to Locke, in regulating religious beliefs and practices. What are the remedies for government that is illegitimate?
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