Two Treatises of Government · Chapter
Two Treatises of Government explained
Locke introduces his work as a two-part treatise: the first aims to detect and overthrow the false principles of Sir Robert Filmer and his followers, while the second presents an essay on the true origin, extent, and end of civil government
What happens
Locke introduces his work as a two-part treatise: the first aims to detect and overthrow the false principles of Sir Robert Filmer and his followers, while the second presents an essay on the true origin, extent, and end of civil government.
Themes in this chapter
Critique of Patriarchalism and Divine Right
The first treatise is explicitly dedicated to detecting and overthrowing Filmer's patriarchal and divine right principles.
Consent of the Governed
The second treatise is described as an essay concerning the true original, extent, and end of civil government, implying a foundation in consent rather than divine right.
Characters to notice
- Sir Robert Filmer
Filmer is identified as the primary opponent whose false principles and foundation are to be detected and overthrown in the first treatise.
Key passages
“In the Former the False Principles and Foundation of Sir Robert Filmer and His Followers Are Detected and Overthrown.”
The first treatise exposes and refutes the erroneous ideas and basis of Sir Robert Filmer and his supporters.
Locke sets the stage for a systematic critique of Filmer's absolutist arguments.
“The Latter Is an Essay Concerning the True Original Extent and End of Civil Government.”
The second treatise is a discussion about the genuine source, scope, and purpose of political authority.
Locke outlines the constructive part of his work, focusing on legitimate government.