Locke

by John Dunn, Ian Harris, J. Burns, G. A. Cohen, F. Fagiani

Overview

John Locke (1632-1704), the English philosopher, has had a wide-ranging influence on modern political thought. Locke’s political philosophy is based on the premise that by nature human beings are equal and that therefore no-one is under the authority of another unless by his own consent. In Locke’s view, natural law constitutes and protects rights of life, liberty and property. His writings are a turning point in the theory of natural rights, linking constitutionalism and toleration. The impact of his ideas can be seen in the American constitution, in the French Revolution and in the development of modern liberalism. His theory of property is a basis for modern discussion of the subject and its emphasis on labour as a source of value and entitlement forms the background for the later economics of both Adam Smith and Karl Marx.

The articles contained in these volumes have been carefully selected in order to put Locke’s work in a wider context. They explore various aspects of Locke’s political theory and investigate his theories on property, natural law, the ‘state of nature’ and toleration.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781858981055
Publisher:	Edward Elgar Publishing
Publication date:	11/18/1997
Series:	Great Political Thinkers series , #9
Pages:	1232
Product dimensions:	6.62(w) x 9.62(h) x (d)

About the Author

Edited by John Dunn, Fellow, Kings College and Professor of Political Theory, University of Cambridge, UK and Ian Harris, Department of Politics, University of Leicester, UK

Editorial Reviews

Fifty-nine articles were compiled primarily to help provide for audiences in places where the relevant academic journals are unavailable, or not easily available. Articles are arranged by order of publication (1929-1992) and represent leading schools of scholarly opinion, while also covering Locke's principle concerns. A brief introduction touches on the importance of studying political theory, especially through Locke's classic texts (which the reader is assumed to be familiar with). The sometimes opposing views presented in this collection encourage readers to develop their own, hopefully wider approach to Locke's writings and to liberalism in general. No index. Annotation c. by Book News, Inc., Portland, Or.

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