Locke - The father of Liberalism

Qn. John Locke is the father of liberalism. Explain.

Locke has traditionally been considered the father of liberal democracy for his advocacy of individual rights, limited government, natural rights, two-stage theory of social contract and for his profound influence on modern democracies.

Locke claims that government must be limited since the relationship between itself and the citizen is reciprocal. He roots sovereignty in society.

Locke considers, "the great and chief end of men's putting themselves under government is the preservation of property i.e., preservation of 'Lives, Liberties and Estates'". Locke considers liberty as a property right because to have property in one's person implies the right to think, speak, and act freely.

Locke proposes a constitutionally limited government to ensure that the government does not violate people's property rights - their lives, liberties, and possessions.

Rational human beings would not logically consent to any form of government that would threaten their basic property rights.

Locke claims that all individuals are equal in their right to accumulate property in possessions and that so long as they are industrious and rational, they have an equal opportunity for economic success.

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