Read the attached article about John Locke. Then take a quiz.
Reading Practice: Who Was John Locke?
Several Inspirational Quotes by John Locke:
1. "The end of law is not to abolish or restrain, but to preserve and enlarge freedom."
- This quote emphasizes Locke's belief in the purpose of laws and government. He argues that the primary role of law should be to protect and expand the freedoms of individuals, not to limit them unnecessarily. It underscores his advocacy for a government that serves the people by safeguarding their liberties.
2. "No man's knowledge here can go beyond his experience."
- Locke is highlighting the foundational principle of his empirical philosophy—that all human knowledge is derived from experience. This quote from "An Essay Concerning Human Understanding" challenges the notion of innate ideas, proposing instead that our understanding of the world is constructed from what we perceive and experience.
3. "Reading furnishes the mind only with materials of knowledge; it is thinking that makes what we read ours."
- This quote underscores the importance of critical thinking and personal reflection. Locke suggests that the mere act of reading or acquiring information is not enough; it is through the process of contemplation and analysis that knowledge becomes truly meaningful and personal.
4. "Government has no other end, but the preservation of property."
- Here, Locke is speaking about the fundamental rights to life, liberty, and property, and the role of government in protecting these rights. This perspective influenced his political philosophy, arguing that the primary purpose of government should be to ensure the security and rights of its citizens, particularly their property rights.
5. "To love truth for truth's sake is the principal part of human perfection in this world, and the seed-plot of all other virtues."
- Locke champions the pursuit of truth as the highest form of human achievement and the foundation upon which all other virtues grow. This quote reflects his commitment to reason, understanding, and the intrinsic value of truth in ethical and intellectual development.
6. "Education begins the gentleman, but reading, good company and reflection must finish him."
- Locke believed in the transformative power of education, but he also stressed the importance of lifelong learning, social interaction, and introspection in the development of a well-rounded and enlightened individual. This quote from "Some Thoughts Concerning Education" illustrates his comprehensive view of what it takes to cultivate virtue and wisdom.
7. "All mankind... being all equal and independent, no one ought to harm another in his life, health, liberty, or possessions."
- In this statement from the "Second Treatise of Government," Locke articulates the principle of equality and independence among people. He underscores the natural rights that everyone possesses and the moral obligation not to infringe upon the rights of others, laying the groundwork for modern concepts of human rights and justice.