Locke questions for 1/19

1. Why does Locke separate the legislative function of government from the executive? Why are they separate, and how is the political “division of labor” carved up? (ch. 7, esp. sec. 88)
2. Chapter seven also sees the introduction of the concept of civil society. What is civil society? What function does it serve?
3. When a political society is formed, all individuals, Locke tells us, must consent to it. However, from that point on, the minority must often “submit to the determination of the majority”. (sec. 97) Why is this?
4. Chapter eight discusses the role monarchies have, and do, play in the history of political society. What makes monarchy potentially attractive? Why is it a bad idea, even when it is done very well?
5. Locke’s most explicit discussion of tacit consent can be found in section 119. What claim does he make for the power of tacit consent here? Is this persuasive? Is there a better way to deal with this issue?
6. Section 122 discusses the difference between foreigners and citizens (“members”). Does his distinction separate the strong case for tacit consent found in section 119?
7. What are federative powers? Why, according to Locke, should they be aligned with the executive function of government, rather than the legislative?
8. Why does legislative power need to be ongoing, rather than temporary?
9. Describe Locke’s “right to rebel.” When do we have it? Why do we have it? How does it differ from the counterpart right found in Hobbes’ political theory?
10. What is the relationship between the legislative function and the laws of nature? If the laws of nature are known by all who have reason and choose to use it, what kind of “human laws” would be appropriate? What kind would be inappropriate?