ABSTRACT

Originally published in 1968. This book presents the synthesis of a coherent view of the Lockeian argument from his various works. This tests the inner consistency of Locke’s political theory against his own examples from history. The layers of Locke’s argumentation are analysed on metaphysics in the first part, his attitude towards historical precedents in the second, and in the third with the nature of the regime which he was ready to endorse. This provides the guidelines for a comprehensive reassessment of the liberal tradition, as well as an evaluation of what is still vital to it.

chapter I|26 pages

Introductory

part One|1 pages

Metapolitics and Politics

chapter II|37 pages

Natural Law

chapter III|25 pages

The Natural and the Political Condition

chapter IV|32 pages

The Extremities of the Political Condition

part Two|1 pages

Metapolitics and History

chapter V|39 pages

Property Relations

chapter VI|29 pages

The Original of Property

chapter VII|29 pages

The Foundation of Political Society

chapter VIII|27 pages

One-Man Rule in Historical Perspective

part Three|1 pages

The Acceptable Regime

chapter IX|27 pages

Individual Consent

chapter XI|26 pages

Executive and Legislature