The Second Treatise of Government (Locke)

John Locke's "Second Treatise of Government" argues that individuals are born with natural rights to life, liberty, and property. He explains that governments are formed through a social contract to protect these rights, with power derived from the consent of the governed. If a government fails to protect these rights or becomes oppressive, citizens have the right to overthrow it. Locke emphasizes limited government, separation of powers, and respect for individual freedoms, shaping modern ideas of democracy and constitutional law. His work advocates for government as a protector of natural rights, rather than an authority to dominate.