John Locke's Theory Of Property

The United States outlined John Locke's concept of private property as an inalienable right. The notion is from Locke's Second Treatise of Government from the 17th century. Yet, many Americans do not know that or are not interested. This notion and Locke's theories can provide a better understanding of our government. As well as help regulate American government so true freedom and equality take place. Americans have accepted the notion that we have the right to the fruit of our labor. The Founding Fathers relied on Locke's principles to establish the role of government. Today, there is great polarization among the population and dissatisfaction with government. Americans should know there is more to this notion than simply having the right …show more content…
Men are free to conduct their life without interference; as well as living in peace with others. Keep in mind that in Locke’s state of nature there are two traits that describe humans: perfect freedom and perfect equality. Freedom involves the ability to be autonomous. Equality refers to having the same rights no matter the physical differences. These two traits justify a man's rights to life, liberty, and property. One cannot take away the life of another. While one's life is their own, they cannot sell or give it away because it is a gift from God. Liberty institutes one's lack of authority over another in nature. Property is a broader term that involves life, liberties, objects, and estates. Keep in mind, earth was given to man by God to make use, enjoy, and benefit from it. Property involves their own persona and that which comes from their labor. While the state of nature is pre-political, it does not lack morals. Morals arise from reason, a God given capacity. In fact, morals are the foundation for the Law of Nature. Restrictions are placed on individuals that make the state of nature peaceful. Locke then establishes his Natural Law Theory. He argues that men live in an ordered system. This system already has in place values and purpose that shapes how laws ought to be. Additionally, there is no state of individuals. State of nature contains small units of people …show more content…
One has the right to exclude others from using their property but when that is violated the State of War takes over. When one man infringes another's rights, they are justified in punishing the wrongdoer. Once a state of war has taken place without authority, it can be brutal and endless. This is when joining a society and leaving the state of nature is beneficial and convenient. In the state of nature and war there is no established law or judge to impartially solve disputes. One should not judge their own case due to the inability to be unbiased; one's passions take over. Thus, one has the choice to leave the state of nature and join a civil society with a political agreement. A society or political state exists when two or more families band together. Once one consents to a society, they submit to the government and its laws, instead of the state of nature. One consents when one obtains possessions and benefits from government resources and laws. One sacrifices the power to create laws, declare war and peace, and judge disputes. One then gains protection of their rights in accordance to the common good. Enforcement of laws that identify right from wrong and impartial judges preserve protection. Most important, a government's role is to serve the populace. Through a representative democracy, government will reflect their will. But, consent is necessary to the rule of law while it is