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HSY1511 Assignment 2 2024
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HSY1511 Assignment 2
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HSY2601ASSIGNMENT 2
Study the extracts provided in the annexure carefully and
answer the questions based on each source:
Source A: John Locke, Second Treaties on Civil Government Document
Source B: Montesquieu, the Spirit of the Laws.
Source C: Mary Wollstonecraft, a Vindication of the Right of Woman
Short questions.
1. Refer to Source A
1.1. What do you think John Locke means by natural rights?
In Source A, John Locke refers to the "just and natural rights" of the people of
England. Natural rights, as understood by Locke and many other Enlightenment
philosophers, are fundamental rights that are inherent to human beings by virtue of
their existence. These rights are not granted by any government or authority, but
are instead seen as stemming from human nature itself. Examples of natural rights
often cited include the rights to life, liberty, and property.
Locke's concept of natural rights is a cornerstone of his political philosophy,
displayed in his seminal work, "Two Treatises of Government." natural rights are
fundamental, inherent rights that every individual possesses simply by virtue of
being human. Locke believed that these rights were not granted by any
government or authority, but rather were derived from the natural state of
humanity.
At the core of Locke's understanding of natural rights are three primary rights: the
right to life, the right to liberty, and the right to property. Let's explore each of these
rights in detail:
Right to Life: The right to life is perhaps the most fundamental of all natural rights.
Locke argues that every individual has a natural right to exist and to preserve their
own life. This right implies not only the right to physical survival but also the right to
pursue one's own well-being and happiness. Locke contends that governments
have a fundamental duty to protect this right and ensure the safety and security of
their citizens.
Right to Liberty: The right to liberty is closely tied to the right to life and refers to
an individual's freedom to act and make choices without interference or coercion
from others. Locke emphasizes the importance of personal autonomy and self-
determination, arguing that individuals have the right to pursue their own interests
and live according to their own beliefs and values, as long as they do not infringe
upon the rights of others.
Right to Property: Locke's conception of the right to property is perhaps his most
famous contribution to political philosophy. He asserts that individuals have a
natural right to acquire, possess, and use property as they see fit, whether it be
, land, goods, or resources. Locke argues that property rights are essential for the
preservation of liberty and the pursuit of happiness, as they enable individuals to
secure the fruits of their labor and provide for themselves and their families.
These natural rights, according to Locke, form the basis of a legitimate government
and serve as constraints on governmental power. He argues that governments are
instituted to protect these rights and that any government that violates or
undermines them loses its legitimacy. Moreover, Locke contends that individuals
have the right to resist and overthrow tyrannical governments that fail to uphold
their natural rights.
John Locke's concept of natural rights range from the fundamental rights of life,
liberty, and property that every individual possesses inherently. These rights serve
as the foundation of Locke's political philosophy, shaping his views on the role of
government, the social contract, and the principles of justice and equality. Locke's
ideas have had a profound influence on the development of liberal democracy and
continue to shape contemporary debates about individual rights and governmental
authority.
1Locke, John, 1632-1704. 1948. The second treatise of civil government and A letter concerning toleration:
Oxford. Blackwell
1.2. Explain the role of the civil state in society as outlined by John Locke.
In this excerpt from John Locke's work, he outlines the role of the civil state in
society. Locke distinguishes between three types of power: paternal power, political
power, and despotical power.
Paternal Power: This power is given to parents by nature for the benefit of their
children during their minority. Its purpose is to allow parents to manage the property
of their children until they are capable of doing so themselves. Locke emphasizes
that property here refers not only to material possessions but also to one's person.
Political Power: This power is established through voluntary agreement among
individuals in society. It is given to governors or rulers for the benefit of the subjects.
The primary purpose of political power is to secure individuals in the possession
and use of their property. This form of power arises from social contracts or
agreements among individuals to create a government for their mutual benefit and
protection.
Despotical Power: Unlike paternal and political power, despotical power arises
through forfeiture. It is a form of absolute dominion exercised by lords over
individuals who have been stripped of all property. Despotical power is solely for the
benefit of the lord, without regard for the well-being of the individuals subjected to it.
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