John Locke's Second Treatise Of Government

In his “Second Treatise of Government,” John Locke explores the crucial relationship and interplay between natural law and government authority, arguing governmental infringement upon natural rights not only justifies but deems revolution as a necessary course of action. Locke contends that these drastic measures are only warranted as a last resort in response to the government acting as a tyrannical force, rather than a protector of life, liberty, and property. Through careful analysis, Locke advocates for revolution with respect to practical implications. Locke’s theory of natural law forms the core for his support of revolution, emphasizing that governments must exist solely to provide a commonwealth that is advantageous to the people and

Through the analogy of slavery, Locke states that “for whenever he finds the hardship of slavery outweigh the value of his life, ‘tis in his power, by resisting the will of his master, to draw himself the death he desires,” (Locke 273). Although speaking of slavery, Locke directly alludes to personal servitude- a motif that represents the interplay between a tyrannical government and the citizens. Here, Locke articulates a clear justification for resistance: when governmental control becomes an unbearable force that outweighs the natural right to a free life, revolution becomes not only a right but a necessary act of liberation. Locke reinforces this principle when he states, “liberty is to be free from restraint and violence from others, which cannot be where there is no law,” (Lock 289). This exposes the role of government in maintaining arbitrary power among the people and argues that clear violation of the fundamental duty to protect and serve their citizens delegitimizes their authority and justifies the citizens right to overthrow such a