John Locke

About this figure

John Locke (1632-1704) was an English philosopher and physician whose writings on knowledge and government became foundational texts of the European Enlightenment. Educated at Westminster School and Christ Church, Oxford, Locke trained in medicine and became a close associate and personal physician to Anthony Ashley Cooper, later the Earl of Shaftesbury, a leading figure in English politics whose fortunes shaped much of Locke's own career. Political turmoil connected to Shaftesbury's opposition to the crown eventually forced Locke into exile in the Netherlands during the early 1680s, and he returned to England only after the Glorious Revolution of 1688 brought William and Mary to the throne.

Locke published his major works in rapid succession following his return. An Essay Concerning Human Understanding, appearing in 1689, argued that the mind begins without innate ideas and that all human knowledge derives from experience. Two Treatises of Government, published the same year though largely written earlier, refuted the theory of the divine right of kings in its first treatise and, in the second, set out a theory of government grounded in natural rights, the consent of the governed, and a right of resistance against tyranny. These works, particularly the second treatise, had a documented influence on later political thought, including the arguments of the American founders.

Locke also wrote on religious toleration, education, and economics. He spent his final years living at Oates, the Essex home of Sir Francis and Lady Masham, and died there in 1704.

Written by Epoch Voices. Not the figure’s own words.