John Locke Research Paper

John Locke’s philosophy is a child is a blank slate that is formed only through experience. One of Locke’s philosophies states, “A child who was taught morals, values and virtue would grow up to be a strong and principled adult, according to Locke's child development theories. As the saying "garbage in, garbage out" implies, Locke believed if a child watched and was taught immoral behavior he would follow that pattern”(Webb). The experiences that happen in childhood will help shape adulthood in either a positive or negative way. Locke also believed, “Whereas some may argue that children love play-games because they excite their imagination or desire for amusement, Locke argues that it is“liberty alone which gives the true relish and delight

Children should be able to make their own decisions and enjoy those decisions. Parents should monitor their children and play a strong role in their children’s early development. Without a strong parent figure a child will not have anyone to learn these philosophies from. Locke’s beliefs of childhood development are shown in the book Frankenstein, the life of Bill Gates and the life of Adolf Hitler. A perfect example of Locke’s philosophy is in the book Frankenstein by Mary Shelley. The creature said to Frankenstein, “...When I contemplated the virtues of the cottagers, their amiable and benevolent dispositions, I persuaded myself that when they should become acquainted with my admiration of their virtues, they would compassionate me and overlook my personal deformity” (Shelley). The creature was abandoned by Frankenstein on the day he came to life

Bill showed early signs of competitiveness when he coordinated family athletic games at their summer house on Puget Sound. He also relished in playing board games (Risk was his favorite) and excelled at Monopoly.” (“Bill Gates Biography”). Bill Gates family was very supportive of him at an early age and told him that he could pursue his passions. The Gates family wanted him to be successful. Locke believes play-games, like Monopoly and Risk, are not just used for imagination and fun, but for liberty gives the fun and delight in playing games. Bill Gates excelled in these games which allowed him to become a reasonable man. The good relationship with his parents help him have a successful career, “He often took his mother with him. Mary was highly respected and well connected with her membership on several corporate boards including IBM. It was through Mary that Bill Gates met the CEO of IBM” (“Bill Gates Biography”). Since Gates had a close relationship with his mother it opened doors for his business to become more successful. If his childhood with his parents had been negative then Microsoft would not be as successful as it is now. The good relationship between Gates and his mother only helped him become the success