John Locke

Sunday, January 27, 2013
First Aired: 
Sunday, February 27, 2011

What Is It

Thomas Jefferson identified John Locke as one of “the three greatest men that have ever lived, without any exception.” Many debates in modern political theory have their roots in the writings of John Locke, and Locke’s work on other philosophical issues, particularly identity and selfhood, have also influenced generations of philosophers. What was Locke’s influence on contemporary political theory and our understanding of the purpose of government?  John and Ken derive their power from the consent of their guest, William Uzgalis from Oregon State University, author of Locke’s Essay Concerning Human Understanding: A Reader’s Guide.

Listening Notes

John and Ken begin by discussing the influence of John Locke, whose thoughts inspired the structure of the American government, profoundly affected the philosophy of language, and fiercely advocated the assassination of (certain) kings. 

William ("Bill") Uzgalis joins the conversation. After a few questions about how Bill came to be interested in John Locke, Bill answers a few questions about Locke's relevance today, then begins to channel, in a sense, the man himself.

Ken asks about the divine right of kings. Did people really believe in it--apparently they did, says Bill. After a bit of chat about Fillmore, John can't help himself, and he asks our channelled Locke if he really wanted to assassinate a king. This leads our hosts to a discussion of Locke's contemporary, practical political persuasions.

John asks about Locke's idea of the state of nature, where people would have lived before the advent of society. Bill/Locke talks about the state of nature as a kind of theoretical litmus test for the legitimacy of a given government, in which something like a golden rule called the "Law of Nature."

The conversation then turns to what Locke would have thought about politics today. Would Locke have been a feminist? Would he have voted Republican? How would he feel about large corporations? Was he really for slavery?  How would he have felt about a war based on tea costs, or even the modern Tea Party?

  • Roving Philosophical Reporter (Seek to 4:05): Caitlin Esch tells us a bit about Locke's life: his biography, his assignation plots, his relation to the radical Thomists, and even a bit about people named "John Locke."
  • Conundrum (Seek to 41:57): A caller asks if her neighbor is immoral for trying to avoid declaring bankruptcy with some big investment losses and a house in foreclosure. Ken and John discuss some of the finer points of the neighbor's obligation in the broader context of America's economic welfare.

Transcript

Comments (4)


davidwilly's picture

davidwilly

Friday, January 10, 2025 -- 9:26 PM

If you're preparing for the

If you're preparing for the CompTIA N10-009 (Network+) exam, you're likely looking for effective study resources to boost your confidence and ensure success. Among the many tools available, exam dumps often come up as an option. But what exactly are they, and should you use them? Here's a detailed look at CompTIA N10-009 exam dumps and how they can impact your preparation. Get updated dumps: https://www.dumpscafe.com/Braindumps-N10-009.html

I've read and agree to abide by the Community Guidelines
Timans's picture

Timans

Wednesday, February 12, 2025 -- 1:04 AM

slope game is a thrilling

slope game is a thrilling game that offers much fun and excitement for players of all ages.

I've read and agree to abide by the Community Guidelines
shiateacher's picture

shiateacher

Wednesday, March 12, 2025 -- 2:12 PM

very true talk thank you so

very true talk thank you so much for sharing with us and We have a professionally certified, online Shia Quran teacher team who are very professional in Shiite Quran and other Fiqh Education.

I've read and agree to abide by the Community Guidelines
muntaziracademy's picture

muntaziracademy

Thursday, March 13, 2025 -- 5:00 AM

great personality thanks for

great personality thanks for his efforts and online Shia Quran academy Is hands down one of the best online religious institutes that would help you with all sorts of grooming and guidance.

I've read and agree to abide by the Community Guidelines