Locke says, "The inconveniencies that they are therein exposed to by the irregular and uncertain exercise of the power every man has of punishing the transgressions of others, make them take sanctuary under the established laws of government, and therein seek the preservation of their property. It is this that makes them so willingly give up every one his single power of punishing to be exercised by such alone as shall be appointed to it amongst them, and by such rules as the community, or those authorized by them to that purpose, shall agree on. And in this we have the original right and rise of both the ____________ and ___________ power as well as of the governments and societies themselves."

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Locke is referring to the legislative power (the power to make laws) and the executive power (the power to enforce laws) in this passage. He argues that people give up their individual power of punishing others in order to create a system of government with appointed officials and agreed upon rules for punishment. The legislative and executive powers are necessary components of this system.

Locke Says, "The Inconveniencies That They Are Therein Exposed to by the Irregular