The Arts and Royalty: Philosophers Debate Politics

The philosophers Thomas Hobbes and John Locke disagreed on the understanding of political authority, with Locke taking what is commonly called the “liberal” view. Choose a side that you actually disagree with

Based on the philosophers’ argument, I largely concur with John Locke. Precisely, he has demonstrated radical opinion about the government. He believed that the government has clearly been required to serve its subjects by protecting their right to life and to property (Allen 21). He advocated for having checks and balances that control the power of the government. He condemned oppressive authorities and suggested that if the rights of citizens are suppressed, the power of the people should be used to rebel against the government. On the other hand, Hobbes argues that people have no right to rebel (Macpherson 2).

Although I disagree with Hobbes argument, I will support the idea of not rebelling against the government. In fact, the people have many alternatives that they can use to bring the government to be accountable. In addition, the government determine what is unlawful and lawful among its subjects (Allen 21).

In the contemporary society, many people are against the actions of the government. Certainly, people express their authority by voting. In addition, they support leaders who they believe can fight for their rights. On the other hand, the people use their vote to remove politicians who fail to meet their expectations (Allen 23). The vote can be a powerful tool that can be used to force the government out of power. It represents a peaceful authority, which people have to change dictatorial governments. In addition, I support Hobbes argument against rebellion because voting can serve the same purpose (Macpherson 10). Furthermore, I would encourage citizens to explore other ways of forcing bad government out of power. Voting also represent voices of the people, and is enshrined in the principles of democracy.

Work Cited

Macpherson, Crawford Brough. “The political theory of possessive individualism: Hobbes to Locke.” (2010). Print.

Allen, John William. “A History of Political Thought in the 16th century.” (2010). Print.