Locke’s Political Philosophy: State of Nature, Social Contract, and Division of Powers
Locke’s Political Philosophy
The State of Nature and Natural Moral Law
1. Freedom and Equality
The state of nature, according to Locke, is characterized by the freedom and equality of all individuals. It exists in the absence of a common authority or government. Individuals remain in this state until they voluntarily choose to become members of a political society.
Unlike Hobbes, Locke does not equate the state of nature with a state of war. On the contrary, he views the state of war as a violation and degeneration of the natural state, arising from the imposition of force without right. It represents a deviation from the ideal state of nature.
2. Natural Moral Law
Locke argues that the state of nature is governed by a natural moral law, discoverable through reason. This law is universally binding and reflects God’s will and the inherent rights of individuals. It is enforced by individuals themselves in the absence of a formal state or legal system.
3. Natural Rights and Duties
The natural moral law, according to Locke, entails the existence of natural rights and corresponding duties. Among these, he emphasizes the right to self-preservation, the right to defend one’s life, liberty, and property.
The Origins of Political Society: The Social Contract
1. The Need for Organized Society
While individuals possess natural rights in the state of nature, not everyone respects them. Locke argues that it is in individuals’ best interest to form an organized society to ensure the effective protection of their rights and freedoms. This society is established through a social contract or agreement among individuals.
The creation of civil society involves relinquishing certain rights but also brings significant benefits. Locke summarizes these benefits as follows:
- Establishment of written laws that define and clarify natural law, reducing disputes.
- Creation of a judicial system to impartially resolve conflicts and prevent arbitrary actions.
- Establishment of a power to punish crimes, ensuring the enforcement of laws and the protection of rights.
- Preservation of private property.
2. Consent as the Basis of Government
Civil society and government, according to Locke, are founded on rational principles and consent. The restrictions imposed on individuals in civil society, compared to the state of nature, are justified only by their consent. No one can be forced out of the state of nature and subjected to political authority without their free and voluntary agreement.
The origin of civil society and government lies in a pact or contract. Individuals agree to surrender their legislative and executive powers to the society but do not relinquish their fundamental freedom, even if it is subject to certain limitations. This surrender of powers is intended to enhance the enjoyment of freedom and security.
The Division of Powers
1. Preventing Abuse of Power
Through the social contract, civil society is established, and the people, assembled, elect a government to which they entrust specific tasks. Locke argues that state power should not be concentrated in the hands of a single individual or body (against absolutism). Instead, the best way to prevent the abuse of power is to divide it into distinct branches, each held by different individuals or entities.
2. Structure of the Division of Powers
Locke’s conception of the division of powers includes the following:
- Legislative Power: The supreme power in the limited sense, responsible for making laws. However, it is not absolute and is bound by the trust placed in it by the people and the natural moral law.
- Executive Power: Responsible for carrying out and enforcing the laws enacted by the legislature.
- Federative Power: Responsible for national security and foreign relations. (Note: Locke does not consider the judiciary as a separate and independent branch, viewing it as an aspect of the executive power.)