How Far is Locke's "Theory of Property" reflected in the U.S. Declaration of Independence?
The Declaration of Independence," a formal announcement of independence by the American colonists from British rule in the summer of 1776, is widely believed to be based on John Locke's theories of natural and property rights as well as the right (even obligation) of the people to rebel against a government that fails to honor the 'contract' between rulers and the ruled by failing to protect the rights of the people.
There is no doubt that Thomas Jefferson, the main author of the "Declaration of Independence" was deeply influenced by the Libertarian philosophy of John Locke and the wordings of the Declaration parallel the writings of Locke regarding "the inalienable rights of life,
Jefferson's definition of "natural rights" was thus arguably different from John Locke's.
James Madison, the "father" of the U.S.
Constitution, has tried to reconcile the difference by broadening the concept of "property." In his "Essay on Property" (1792), Madison wrote: "It [property] embraces everything to which a man may attach a value and have a right; and which leaves to every one else the like advantage."
Subtitled "An Essay Concerning the True Original Extent and End of Civil Government."
Madison was Thomas Jefferson's Secretary of State, and later succeeded him as the fourth President of the United States.
Locke
