Question

Based on the Pangle reading, how is the Biblical view of property different than Locke's view? Did Locke’s view completely prevail in America? Support your answer to this second question with examples.

Answer 1

            Biblical and Locke’s view of property represents two different views on the property with Locke’s view being entirely the opposite to the biblical view of property. The following are the major differences between the biblical view and Locke’s view according to Pangle reading

· Pangle states that the Locke’s view on property is an assault to the biblical conception

· Locke’s view of property is expected to be derived from the theory of labour

· The Locke’s view of property is rooted in the natural law and states that every person has the right over property to which he/she has put effort of labour

· According to Locke’s view, self-preservation led the people to property attainment and the need for a government arose due to the need to preserve the property

                                               On analysis of the American government, it can be seen that Locke’s view had an impact on the government and its administration. The following are the points that would support the same

· Locke’s views were centred around separation of powers which forms the basis of the American constitution and the working of the government

· Locke’s views were instrumental in the development of modern executive and legislative power in America

· Thomas Jefferson’s belief in these ideas made him base the powers of the government on ‘unalienable rights’.

· The fifth Amendment of the American constitution which states that ‘the private property should not be taken for public use without just compensation’ is an elaboration of the Locke’s view of property

                                              Property rights forms a basis of an economy and from the discussions above, it can be seen that Locke’s view of property is different from the biblical views and has had great influence on the American constitution and government.