What work did John Locke publish in 1689 that argued against Thomas Hobbes?

What work did John Locke publish in 1689 that argued against Thomas Hobbes?

• A. Leviathan
• B. The Social Contract
• C. Two Treatises of Government
• D. On Liberty

Answer: (C)

John Locke published "Two Treatises of Government" in 1689 as a significant response to the ideas presented by Thomas Hobbes, particularly those outlined in Hobbes's work "Leviathan." In "Two Treatises of Government," Locke argues for the concept of natural rights—life, liberty, and property—and presents the idea that government should be based on the consent of the governed. This contrasts sharply with Hobbes's view, which suggests that humans need a strong central authority to avoid chaos and that people give up significant freedoms for safety and order. Locke’s work laid the groundwork for modern democratic thought, emphasizing that political power should be derived from the will of the people and that individuals have the right to revolt against a government that does not protect their rights. Thus, "Two Treatises of Government" is pivotal in the development of liberal political philosophy, fundamentally challenging Hobbesian views on human nature and governance.

John Locke published "Two Treatises of Government" in 1689 as a significant response to the ideas presented by Thomas Hobbes, particularly those outlined in Hobbes's work "Leviathan." In "Two Treatises of Government," Locke argues for the concept of natural rights—life, liberty, and property—and presents the idea that government should be based on the consent of the governed. This contrasts sharply with Hobbes's view, which suggests that humans need a strong central authority to avoid chaos and that people give up significant freedoms for safety and order.

Locke’s work laid the groundwork for modern democratic thought, emphasizing that political power should be derived from the will of the people and that individuals have the right to revolt against a government that does not protect their rights. Thus, "Two Treatises of Government" is pivotal in the development of liberal political philosophy, fundamentally challenging Hobbesian views on human nature and governance.