Definition

Proper noun * John Locke: An English philosopher and physician, widely regarded as one of the most influential thinkers of the Enlightenment. He is known as the "Father of Liberalism" and is famous for his empiricist theory of knowledge, arguing that the human mind at birth is a tabula rasa (blank slate) and that all knowledge is derived from sensory experience.

Examples of Usage

• Proper noun:
  • The political theories of John Locke heavily influenced the authors of the United States Constitution.
  • In his Essay Concerning Human Understanding, John Locke argued against the concept of innate ideas.
  • Many modern concepts of individual rights and government by consent are traced back to John Locke.

Advanced Usage

• Lockean (adj): Pertaining to or characteristic of the philosophy of John Locke.
  • The document reflected a Lockean view of natural rights.
• Lockean liberalism: The strand of liberal political philosophy based on Locke's writings, emphasizing individual liberty, property rights, and limited government.

Variants and Related Words

• Locke, John (full name)
• Lockean (adjective form)

Synonyms

• The Philosopher of Empiricism
• The Father of Liberalism

Related Phrases and Concepts

• Tabula rasa: A Latin phrase meaning "blank slate," central to Locke's theory of the mind.
• Social contract: A theory, advanced by Locke, that governments derive their just powers from the consent of the governed.
• Natural rights: Rights, such as life, liberty, and property, which Locke argued were inherent and inalienable.

Noun

1. English empiricist philosopher who believed that all knowledge is derived from sensory experience (1632-1704)