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Single Idea 19866

[catalogued under 24. Political Theory / A. Basis of a State / 3. Natural Values / c. Natural rights]

Full Idea

The state of Nature has a law of Nature to govern it, which obliges everyone, and reason, which is that law, teaches mankind that all being equal and independent, no one ought to harm another in his life, health, liberty or possessions.

Gist of Idea

The rational law of nature says we are all equal and independent, and should show mutual respect

Source

John Locke (Second Treatise of Government [1690], 006)

A Reaction

He adds that this is because we are all the property of God. Locke is more optimistic than Hobbes or Rousseau about this, since he thinks we have a natural obligation to be nice.

Book Reference

Locke,John: 'Two Treatises of Government' [Everyman 1988], p.119