Summary

Often considered the foundation of political liberalism, John Locke's Two Treatises of Government was first published anonymously in 1689, in the wake of England's Glorious Revolution. In The First Treatise of Government, Locke refutes the idea of divine monarchy, while The Second Treatise of Government articulates Locke's philosophy of government, which he based upon his theories of natural rights and the social contract. In Locke's view, governments' legitimacy is based upon their performance of their proper functions---preservation of the life, liberty, and property rights of their citizens, and protection from those who seek to violate these rights. A radical doctrine at the time of its publication, Locke's theories provided a philosophical basis for many of the principles behind the American Revolution. More than 300 years after the publication of the Two Treatises of Government, Locke's ideas continue to spark debate. A must-listen for anyone interested in the foundations of contemporary political ideology, Locke's hugely influential work will retain its relevance for generations to come.
Public Domain (P)2011 Tantor
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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful
5 out of 5 stars
By Kindle Customer on 04-06-18

A hugely important work, done justice

Anyone who values democratic government owes a huge amount to Locke, and Langton's performance treats the work with the gravitas it deserves.

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5 out of 5 stars
By lewis on 20-05-18

A great listen and politically intriguing.

the book is in two parts the first a response to the tyrannical power of monarchy and the second a justification for democracy and private property. concepts are engaged with critically and well so demonstrate the value towards what Locke focused primarily on the public good. best read in regards to Hobbes' leviathan and Rousseau's social contract

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful
5 out of 5 stars
By Travis on 09-07-12

Don't let the title scare you off!

What did you love best about Two Treatises of Government?

I discovered that John Locke has a wonderful sense of humor!

What other book might you compare Two Treatises of Government to and why?

There are so many books that draw from this book for their material. Most "conservative" books quote from this one several times in order to make their case for limited government.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

yes, but it is a lot of information to take in all at once so it took me a couple weeks to get through and process what I learned.

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5 of 5 people found this review helpful

5 out of 5 stars
By Gregory on 05-12-16

Excellent Narration, Foundational Text

First, I must say that this narrator is easier to follow than simply reading the text, so good is his reading.

The text itself is a very medieval thing, like all early modern works of political thought, but also a very contemporary thing, as all pieces of well-considered literature are when they bear upon perennial issues. Worth several listens, and a lifetime of pondering.

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3 of 3 people found this review helpful

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