Understanding John Locke and His Challenge to the Divine Right of Kings

Which English philosopher argued against the Divine Right of Kings and championed natural rights such as life and liberty?

• A. Thomas Hobbes
• B. John Stuart Mill
• C. John Locke
• D. David Hume

Answer: (C)

The argument against the Divine Right of Kings and the advocacy for natural rights such as life and liberty is primarily attributed to John Locke. Locke believed that individuals have inherent rights that are not granted by any authority, but are simply part of being human. This philosophy posited that governments are established to protect these natural rights, and when a government fails to do so, citizens have the right to revolt. Through his works, especially "Two Treatises of Government," Locke articulated the idea that legitimate government must gain the consent of the governed, a stark contrast to the notion of the Divine Right of Kings, which held that monarchs were divinely appointed with absolute authority. Locke's concepts influenced the development of liberal thought and democratic ideals, making him a foundational figure in social contract theory.

When you think about the foundations of modern democracy, one name often stands out: John Locke. This English philosopher didn’t just write a few fancy books; he shook the very pillars of political thought during the Enlightenment. You might be asking, "What’s so special about him?" Well, here’s the scoop. Locke's arguments against the Divine Right of Kings turned heads and sparked conversations that still resonate today.

Let’s break it down a bit. The Divine Right of Kings was this old-school idea that kings were chosen by God to rule with absolute authority. Sounds pretty heavy-handed, right? In contrast, Locke came along and said, “Hold up! What if people actually have rights just by being human?” This revolutionary idea is what we call natural rights—think life, liberty, and property. Can you imagine how radical that sounded back then?

Locke didn’t just toss this concept out there without a good reason. His major work, Two Treatises of Government, laid out an argument that made the case for not only challenging monarchy but also for establishing a government that’s really meant to protect these natural rights. It was almost like he was writing a to-do list for future governments: protect the rights of citizens, gain their consent, and if you fail, well, it’s time for a change!

Have you ever felt like your voice doesn’t matter? Locke believed that everyone deserves a say in how they’re governed. He argued that legitimate authority comes from the consent of the governed. So, if a government wasn’t doing its job, the people not only had the right but the moral obligation to revolt. That’s got to make you think about the role of citizens in a democracy, right?

His ideas didn’t just stop at governmental structure; they laid the groundwork for liberalism and human rights as we understand them today. Locke’s influence can be traced through history, influencing revolutions and democratic movements worldwide. From the French Revolution to the American fight for independence, Locke's philosophy echoed through the ages.

As you prepare for the AP World History exam, understanding Locke’s philosophies can help you grasp broader themes in political development. He wasn’t the only thinker of his time, but he certainly brought a unique perspective that challenged the status quo. His arguments paint a vivid picture of the struggle between authority and individual rights, something still debated in modern times.

So, the next time someone brings up the Divine Right of Kings, remember Locke, the philosopher who turned that idea on its head. With his concepts still shaping today’s governments and discussions about human rights, it’s clear that this guy knew what he was talking about—now, how about incorporating some of his insights into your own worldview? Exploring these themes not only prepares you for the exam but also enriches your understanding of our current sociopolitical landscape.