* The author is part of the community of readers of La Vanguardia
To begin this profile of John Locke, two ideas: “Sovereignty emanates from the people. Life, liberty and law are natural rights of men.” And “since we are all equal, no one should harm another in their life, health, freedom or possessions.”
Locke (Wrington, 1632 – High Laver, 1704) is considered the father of liberalism. He was a philosopher and doctor, a great thinker in the field of political, religious and pedagogical studies. He studied at Oxford University. He expanded his studies in physics and chemistry. His friendship with Lord Anthony Ashley was very important in his career. He was influenced by Plato and Aristotle, Descartes and Bacon.
His theory of the Social Contract influenced Rousseau, Voltaire and the Declaration of Independence of the United States of America. Locke was a notable representative of 18th century English philosophy and science who assumed the role of guide to European culture.
He maintained an ideology that was not radical and revolutionary, but moderate, capable of reconciling the progressive spirit of the new times and scrupulous respect for traditions and fidelity to the principles of Anglican Christianity.
He was one of the first English empiricists. He knew how to renounce public life to dedicate himself to his work as a writer. He intensely studied the Holy Scripture.
In its pedagogical aspect and through discipline it wants to reach the modern, healthy and robust “gentleman” with these characteristics:
It proposes that “sovereignty emanates from the people, life, freedom and law are natural rights of men.” His ideas were taken as the basis for the ideological development of the Enlightenment and liberal thought, which is why he is considered one of the most influential men in history.
Essay on human understanding
Treatise on government
Thoughts on education
The rationality of Christianity
Four cards of tolerance
