Experience
Ideas arise from sensation and reflection on the mind’s operations rather than innate principles.
A situation to think through
Distinguish what you observed from the mental operation organizing it.
Empiricism and political philosophy · 1632–1704
John Locke
Know the limits of our knowledge and power.
Wrington · Oxford · London · Netherlands
Philosophy
Ideas that shift your perspective.
Knowledge and probability
Knowledge concerns relations between ideas; many practical affairs require probable judgment.
A situation to think through
A decision can be reasonable without demonstrative certainty.
Consent
Legitimate political authority depends on a community and government entrusted to protect its rights.
A situation to think through
Ask who actually participates in a decision and what powers are entrusted.
Toleration and limits
Locke limits religious coercion but excludes some groups from his own defense of toleration.
A situation to think through
Examine both the proposed rule and the people it does not protect.