Natual Law

A detailed Summary of Natual Law


It is the natural right for everyone in the civilized world to enjoy the benefits of freedom. They are entitled to the safety of their lives and health. It is their god given choice to own property, and the fruits of their labors. According to John Locke this is the universal order. Undeniable facts that govern the way all men should live their lives.

To maintain your natural rights you must follow the natural law. Not following the laws of nature is to go against reason. If one puts themselves in opposition to the natural rights of another they enter into a state of war with that person. The state of war is impeding on natural rights, posing a threat to someone's life, freedom, or property. The state of war is a violation against reason.

At this point certain measures may be taken to punish the offender. You may retaliate against the invader, such as killing your enemy or placing them into slavery. Slavery is a state of war in which you gain power over someone else and strip them of their natural rights. Slavery is only acceptable as an alternative to killing someone who has brought himself into a state of war with you. These laws are based in nature to help preserve mankind, and guide us to new glories.


John Locke concludes that cure for the state of nature is majority rule. The majority then elects officials and judges to promote the common good. The universal order is maintained and all men enjoy the benefits of their natural rights.

This explains the benefits of organized governments. It is necessary to maintain order; government provides the plat form for everyone's voice to be heard and the natural laws to be enforced. In the state of nature, the condition of human beings before or without government, the punishment for every crime and criminal is different. Without the ultimate rule of the majority over us we may go to far and break the natural rights ourselves while seeking retribution. Setting up a just government to administer punishments is more appropriate. Although the state of nature has the law of nature to maintain order there are still a number of problems with it. The chief concern being that there is no established laws, nothing tangible to judge lawbreakers against. Also an impartial judge is needed to speak for the government and administer punishment on their behalf.

In other words, if you don't have representation in how the government is operated Locke recommends over throwing the system. Simply because the king is the only voice to be heard, doesn't make his voice the right one to listen to.



Some common words found in the essay are:
John Locke, , natural rights, law nature, rule majority, natural law, voice heard, government administer, john locke, live lives, property own, gain power,

Approximate Word count = 903
Approximate Pages = 4 (250 words per page double spaced)

Category: English

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