Two Treatises of Government by John Locke
"Two Treatises of Government" is a seminal work in political philosophy, which outlines the author's theories on social contract and natural rights. The first treatise refutes the divine rights of kings, arguing that political power does not come from God but from the people. The second treatise introduces the idea of a government that exists to protect the rights of its citizens, particularly life, liberty, and property. The author posits that if a government fails to protect these rights, the people have the right to overthrow it. This work greatly influenced the development of democratic thought and the structure of modern democratic governments.
The 952nd greatest book of all time
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Total Points: 419
This book was first published in 1689
7 Lists
- score: 169 -- Harenberg Buch der 1000 Bücher - 2005 (Weight: 160)
- score: 127 -- The Great Books Podcast from John J. Miller - 2025 (Weight: 120)
- score: 87 -- The Great Books Reader - 2011 (Weight: 83)
- score: 31 -- The New Lifetime Reading Plan - 1999 (Weight: 30)
- score: 1 -- 72 Philosophy Books Everyone Should Read - 2018 (Weight: 1)
- score: 1 -- 100 Best Political Books - 2017 (Weight: 1)
- score: 1 -- The Well-Educated Mind - 2003 (Weight: 1)