Second Treatise Of Government And A Letter Concerning Toleration

The Second Treatise is one of the most important political treatises ever written and one of the most far-reaching in its influence. In his provocative 15-page introduction to this edition, the late eminent political theorist C. B. Macpherson examines Locke's arguments for limited, conditional government, private property, and right of revolution and suggests reasons for the appeal of these arguments in Locke's time and since.

In The Second Treatise of Government, John Locke answered two objectives: to refute the concept of the monarchy's divine right and to establish a theory reconciling civil liberties with political order. His Letter Concerning Toleration rests on the same basic principles as his political theory; Locke's main argument for toleration is a corollary of his theory of the nature of civil society. The basis of social and political philosophy for generations, these works laid the foundation of the modern democratic state in England and abroad. Their enduring importance makes them essential reading for students of philosophy, history, and political science. -- Amazon.com

As one of the early Enlightenment philosophers in England, John Locke sought to bring reason and critical intelligence to the discussion of the origins of civil society. Endeavoring to reconstruct the nature and purpose of government, a social contract theory is proposed. The Second Treatise sets forth a detailed discussion of how civil society came to be and the nature of its inception. Locke's discussion of tacit consent, separation of powers, and the right of citizens to revolt against repressive governments, has made The Second Treatise one of the most influential essays in the history of political philosophy.

The Second Treatise of Government and A Letter Concerning Toleration, written by legendary author John Locke, is widely considered to be two of the greatest classic texts of all time. These great classics will surely attract a whole new generation of readers. For many, The Second Treatise of Government and A Letter Concerning Toleration are required reading for various courses and curriculums. And for others who simply enjoy reading timeless pieces of classic literature, these gems by John Locke are highly recommended. Published by Classic Books International and beautifully produced, The Second Treatise of Government and A Letter Concerning Toleration would make an ideal gift and it should be a part of everyone's personal library.