According to John Locke's social contract theory, which government would be an "illegal" Government?
John Locke's social contract theory suggests that a government's legitimacy is derived from the consent of the governed. According to Locke, an illegal government would be one that fails to fulfill its obligations and violates the terms of the social contract.
To determine which government would be considered "illegal" according to Locke's theory, you need to consider a few key principles:
1. Consent of the governed: Locke believed that individuals willingly enter into a social contract by consenting to be governed. If a government is not established with the consent of the people it governs, it would be considered illegal.
2. Protection of natural rights: Locke argued that governments should protect the natural rights of individuals, such as life, liberty, and property. If a government abrogates these rights and fails to uphold its duty to protect them, it would be considered illegal.
3. Limited powers: Locke emphasized that governments should have limited powers and should not infringe upon individuals' rights without just cause. If a government exceeds its authority, becomes tyrannical, or starts acting arbitrarily, it would be deemed illegal.
Applying these principles, an "illegal" government according to Locke's social contract theory would be one that is established without the consent of the governed, fails to protect people's natural rights, or exceeds its lawful authority by becoming oppressive or tyrannical.