Author(s)

Na Yao ¹

Affiliation(s)

¹ Zhongnan University of Economics and Law, Wuhan, Hubei, 430073, China

Corresponding Author

Na Yao

ABSTRACT

John Locke's thought on natural law possesses both destructive and constructive qualities. Its destructiveness lies in the profound critique of the divine right of kings, whereas its constructiveness is primarily articulated through a systematic exposition of social contract theory. The foundation of social contract theory is built upon the support for individual freedom and rights, economic freedom, and property rights. The transition from the state of nature to the formation of government is key, involving the partial surrender of people's rights, while the essence of effective government operation is the limitation of state power. Human rights and the contract grant legitimate life to the government, while the implementation of separation of powers and the rule of law ensures the practical realization of human rights. Locke's social contract theory has a profound impact on modern democratic politics and the construction of the rule of law, warranting repeated reading and contemplation.

KEYWORDS

Locke; Social Contract; Separation of Powers; Rule of Law

CITE THIS PAPER

Na Yao, The Constructive Aspect of Locke's Social Contract Theory. Science of Law Journal (2024) Vol. 3: 109-115. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/DOI: 10.23977/law.2024.030216.

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