Full Idea
Nothing can make any man a subject or member of a commonwealth but his actually entering into it by positive engagement, and express promise and compact.
Gist of Idea
You can only become an actual member of a commonwealth by an express promise
Source
John Locke (Second Treatise of Government [1690], 122)
A Reaction
In practice the indigenous population never do this. But it a clear distinction for foreign residents in any country. States cannot induct resident foreigners into their army, or allow them to vote.
Book Reference
Locke,John: 'Two Treatises of Government' [Everyman 1988], p.179
Related Idea
Idea 19893 Anyone who enjoys the benefits of a state has given tacit consent to be part of it [Locke]