FAITH OF THE FOUNDERS: John Locke on How to Make Good Laws
(QUICK READ) — Englishman John Locke was among the most influential political philosophers of the 17th Century and his writings were especially well-known and studied by the leaders of the American founding generation.
English political philosopher John Locke (Screenshot, National Portrait Gallery).
Locke was not an orthodox Christian, but he accorded tremendous respect to the values, especially those of relevance in the political realm, encouraged in the Bible and in the practices of the various denominations.
Locke was not physically present during the American Revolution, but his writings were constant companions and instructors to many of the Founders. Thus the relevance of the following quote to every individual involved at any level or capacity in the making of laws in this nation:
“Laws … must be made according to the general Laws of Nature, and without contradiction to any positive Law of Scripture, otherwise they are ill made.” – John Locke, “Second Treatise on Civil Government”
And as Mark Strand, who recommended this particular quote, observes: “Ok, he was British, not American – but he was an inspiration for many of the Founding Fathers.”
Christian Life and Character of the Civil Institutions of the United States of America.
Many of the quotes reprinted in HillFaith’s “The Faith of The Founders” weekly series of posts are compiled from Benjamin F. Morris’ classic work, “The Christian Life and Character of the Civil Institutions of the United States.” Morris, an historian and pastor, published the first edition more than a century ago.
Quotations are also compiled from Mark Strand, author of the Daily Inspirations email he shares on request here and that HillFaith highly recommends to all congressional aides, be they working on Capitol Hill or in a state or district office back home.
Mark was for 16 years President of the Congressional Institute, and he is a former fellow of the Harvard Institute of Politics. He was also a 24-year veteran congressional staffer, including four years as Chief of Staff to Sen. James Talent (R-Missouri).