Book Description:
John Locke’s Second Treatise of Government is one of the most influential works in Western political philosophy, laying the foundation for modern liberal democracy. Written in the late 17th century and published in 1689, the treatise articulates Locke’s vision of natural rights, the social contract, and the justification for rebellion against unjust rulers.
In this work, Locke argues that legitimate government arises from the consent of the governed and must protect the inalienable rights to life, liberty, and property. If a government becomes tyrannical and violates these rights, citizens not only have the right but the duty to resist and replace it. His ideas profoundly influenced the American and French revolutions and continue to shape democratic theory to this day.
Clear, rational, and revolutionary in its time, the Second Treatise remains essential reading for understanding the philosophical roots of constitutional government and individual freedom.
