Political Writings of John Locke edited by David Wooten

The Political Philosophy Paper John Locke

Political Writings of John Locke edited by David Wooten

– The True Believer by Eric Hoffer

– The Federalists Papers by Hamilton, Madison and Jay

Answer questions One and Four and a third question of your choosing.

Should write about one page per question.

1) Explain how John Locke attacks the concept of Absolutism through his theories of Natural Rights and The Social Contract. Explain these two concepts and what action does Locke further advocate if a government violates the Contract and/or our Natural Rights??

2) Explain Locke’s theory of Property in all its broad facets and what is the proper role of government in respect to the right of property.

3) Explain the doctrine of Laissez-Faire as defined by Adam Smith (i.e. The Invisible Hand) and the Physiocrats ( i.e. The “Natural” Cycles) Explain the supposed benefits of the doctrine. How do they differ in this respect to Locke? Specifically; how do they differ (from Locke) when it comes to the role of government?

4) How do the Founding Fathers expand on Locke’s doctrine of limited government ? E.g. Madison’s Theory of Competing Factions both in Government and in Society. Relate it to the experience of the American Revolution as opposed to Locke’s experience in the English Revolutions.