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John Locke (1632 -1704) is considered one of the most influential political philosophers of his time. Locke is historically viewed as a classical liberal, whose ideas helped shape much of the western world.1 In this paper, I will examine the text of Locke’s most renowned work; The Second Treatise of Government and more specifically explain, situate and asses his political theories expressed in paragraph 120. When looking at Locke’s views under his conception of property and human nature, it is clear that his argument put fourth in paragraph 120 is well founded and valid.
At the core of Locke’s arguments is his fundamental conception of mankind and his underlying beliefs in “the state of nature”. In order to understand Locke’s political theories, the “state of nature” must always be taken into consideration. ... The only controlling factors that exist in the “state of nature” are what Locke refers to as “natural laws”. ... ”2 However, as Locke points out, human nature is cruel and the realities associated with self-governing leads to an unpleasant lifestyle. ...
In the first portion of paragraph 120 Locke makes the point that when a man enters a commonwealth he unites himself and his possessions to the community and to the government of that commonwealth. ...
Locke continues in paragraph 120 to discuss the importance of governmental regulation and control over the property of those in the commonwealth. He states: “enter into society for the securing and regulating of property…property is to be regulated by the laws of society”4 For Locke, it is this control of property which is the ultimate reason why individuals chose to enter a commonwealth. ... For Locke, property is far more than personal assets; it also includes an individual’s lives and liberties. ...
Locke continues in paragraph 120 by saying that the individual as well as his possessions are subject to the government for as long as it exists. By this Locke is saying that individuals cannot enter into society and then at later date declare themselves not subject to the laws of the commonwealth. ... Regulating property is the key feature of government for Locke. ... Subjecting themselves and their possessions to the laws is made much less daunting by the fact that the true power in Locke’s conception of commonwealth lies in the hands of the people. For Locke the majority always has the ultimate power. ... ”4
Paragraph 120 comes at an important juncture in Locke’s argument. It is positioned as somewhat of a bridge between Locke’s most fundamental principles about human nature and society and his more specific views on particular functions and roles within a potential government. Prior to this point in his argument Locke spends much of his writing clearly outlining his position of society without government. It is in the early portion of the Second Treatise where Locke outlines his conception of the “state of nature” and the “state of war”. ... ”5 After considering Locke’s views on human nature and societies without rule, it is clear to see his progression towards his views on the formation of political societies for the protection of property, expressed in paragraph 120.
Following paragraph 120 Locke moves into a more specific outline of how his conception of government is to form and operate. Locke does not simply express his opinions on society; he also offers his explanation of how to enact his views in the latter portion of his work.
Approximate Word count = 2791
Approximate Pages = 11.2
(250 words per page double spaced)
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