John Locke s Theory Of Power Essay - 1693 Words

I will begin by giving a little background on the philosopher John Locke. Locke was born on August 28, 1632 near the city of Pensford in England, and he was educated at Westminster School in London in 1647 . After extensive reading and learning Locke began writing a number of different philosophical treatises and essays starting about 1680 and continuing through 1699 when he decided to spend the rest of his life in quiet reflection . The piece ok Locke’s work that we will be looking at for the purpose this paper is his book, An Essay concerning Human Understanding, and more specifically chapter twenty one that discusses his notion of power. I hope to accomplish two things in this paper. The first part, is to use this chapter and commentaries to explore Locke definition of power, which is when the mind, â€Å"informed by the senses,† is aware of and reflects on the changes that are internal to the self and external to the object relating to the senses . Locke then continues that there are two ways to look at power, the first is the power to make changes and the second is the power to be a receiver of changes . This is Locke’s notion of power formulated in a simplistic form, and I will attempt to explain the complex arguments he makes so that they will be more clear and direct. In the second part I will bring to light some of Locke’s errors in his consideration of pleasure and pain, according to the determination and morality of the will. Locke’s goal for happiness in lifeShow MoreRelatedThe Work Of John Locke1395 Words   |  6 PagesDifferent theorists have attempted to explain why individuals submit themselves to an external power to form a society. Some philosophers argue that individuals submit themselves to an external power on a contractual basis through the mutual transfer of right since, primarily, everyone has a right to everything. 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