Second Treatise of Government, Chapter 9 summary
Chapter 9 of 19 · Book 2 · 5 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 9, people leave natural independence because their lives, liberties, and possessions lack reliable protection, and they transfer powers to political society. This explanation establishes limits on government: its laws, judges, and force must secure property and serve the common good rather than expose people to arbitrary rule.
What happens
- People join political society because natural freedom leaves their property exposed to others.
- Natural life lacks agreed legal standards, impartial judges, and reliable force to enforce fair decisions.
- These defects lead individuals to place punishment under community rules, establishing legislative and executive authority.
- Members accept legal limits on self-preservation and surrender their personal authority to punish, supporting the community’s executive power instead.
- Government must use known laws, impartial judges, and public force solely for protection and the common good.
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In this chapter
What to notice
The purpose of political association also limits its authority. People surrender natural powers for protection, so rulers cannot legitimately use those powers against public welfare.
Quick check
Which power does a person surrender entirely upon joining political society?
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