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Single Idea 19872

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

Full Idea

All the fruits the earth naturally produces, and beasts it feeds, belong to mankind in common, as they are produced by the spontaneous hand of Nature.

Gist of Idea

The animals and fruits of the earth belong to mankind

Source

John Locke (Second Treatise of Government [1690], 026)

A Reaction

Not a popular view among 21st century ecologists, I guess, but this remains the implicit belief of anyone who goes hunting in the woods, and our enclosed gardens seem to endorse the idea.

Book Reference

Locke,John: 'Two Treatises of Government' [Everyman 1988], p.129

Related Ideas

Idea 19873 We all own our bodies, and the work we do is our own [Locke]

Idea 19874 If a man mixes his labour with something in Nature, he thereby comes to own it [Locke]

Idea 19875 A man's labour gives ownership rights - as long as there are fair shares for all [Locke]