# Book II: Of Civil Government explained — Two Treatises of Government

> Chapter companion for Two Treatises of Government by John Locke.

## What happens

Locke outlines the foundation of legitimate political authority based on natural rights, consent of the governed, and the social contract, arguing against absolute monarchy and for limited government.

## Themes in this chapter

### Natural Rights and Liberty

Locke asserts that individuals possess inherent natural rights to life, liberty, and property.

### Consent of the Governed

Legitimate government is established through the consent of the people, not by hereditary or divine right.

## Character check-ins

### Sir Robert Filmer

Locke refutes Filmer's patriarchal theory of absolute monarchy.

### Adam

Referenced in the context of Filmer's claim of Adam's sovereignty.

## Key lines

> Book II Of Civil Government

Locke begins his treatise on the true origins, extent, and end of civil government.

_Opening of the chapter setting the stage for his political philosophy._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/two_treatises_of_government_se/chapters/book-ii-of-civil-government
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/two_treatises_of_government_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/two_treatises_of_government_se/chapters