John Locke

John Locke was an English philosopher and political theorist whose work helped shape empiricism, classical liberalism, and modern political thought.

John Locke was an English philosopher and political theorist whose work helped shape empiricism, classical liberalism, and modern political thought. He is best known for his writings on knowledge, toleration, natural rights, and government by consent.

What it is

Locke (1632–1704) was a key figure in British empiricism and the Enlightenment. His philosophy argued that knowledge comes from experience, not innate ideas, as laid out in *An Essay Concerning Human Understanding*. Politically, he defended natural rights, limited government, and consent of the governed in *Two Treatises of Government*.

Why it matters

Locke’s ideas on natural rights and government by consent became foundational to classical liberalism and influenced later constitutional thought, including in Canada. His work helped shape modern liberal democracy and civil liberties.

Key details

Born in Somerset, England, Locke studied at Oxford and also worked as a physician. His notable works include *An Essay Concerning Human Understanding*, *Two Treatises of Government*, and *A Letter Concerning Toleration*. He died in 1704 in Essex.