What were the key ideas of John Locke?

John Locke, an influential philosopher during the Enlightenment period, had several key ideas. Firstly, he believed in the concept of tabula rasa, which means that individuals are born with a blank slate and acquire knowledge through experience and perception. This idea challenged the prevailing belief in innate ideas.

Locke also emphasized the importance of individual rights and the social contract. He argued that individuals have natural rights to life, liberty, and property, and that governments are established to protect these rights. If a government fails to fulfill its duty, the people have the right to rebel and establish a new government.

Furthermore, Locke advocated for limited government and the separation of powers. He believed that the power of the government should be limited to protect individual rights and prevent tyranny. Additionally, he proposed the separation of powers into legislative, executive, and judicial branches to ensure a system of checks and balances.

Overall, John Locke's key ideas revolved around the importance of individual rights, the social contract, limited government, and the power of experience and perception in acquiring knowledge.