Explain the significance of property in Lockes theory of natural Essay

Explain the significance of property in Lockes theory of natural rights - Essay Example Locke states specifically that â€Å"mens lives, liberties and estates, I call by the general name property†3. So here, it is apparent that Locke defines property in a way that is quite unique and distinct from the mainstream definition we are accustomed to. Again, Locke states that â€Å"by property, I must be understood here as in other places to mean that property which men have in their persons as well as goods†4. Locke repeats the wider definition of property which seem to define property in relation to the estates and goods a person owns as well as a persons life as a living person. Looking at Lockes definition of property in the macrocosmic sense, it is apparent that he was arguing that once a person has a life, he has a property. This property is of a value even if the person does not own any property. Locke puts forward several cases and arguments that supports his points in England of his era. Most of these arguments are rooted in Biblical principles and precepts and it weaves into the wider society by building a hedge around the human lives to ensure that people get good and fair treatment wherever they find themselves. Locke argues that human beings have been given rights by God to take dominion over the earth and exercise control over the natural environment and the lesser creatures5. This is supported by the Bible in Genesis. Locke therefore states that â€Å"man should live and abide for some time upon the face of the earth†6. This therefore means that every individual on the earth has some rights to control some portion of the earth because it was an in inherent and inalienable right given to Adam by God. This therefore means that every human being is by extension, a representative of God who seeks to honour the purpose for which Adam was created: to take dominion and guard over the natural environment. Although God gave dominion to Adam, this was held exclusively by all human beings