What fundamental belief did John Locke hold regarding individuals in a society?

John Locke held the fundamental belief that individuals have the right to self-govern, which is a cornerstone of his philosophy. He argued that all individuals possess natural rights, including life, liberty, and property, and that governments are formed to protect these rights. Locke believed that legitimate government is based on the consent of the governed, meaning that the authority of a government derives from the people's agreement to form and abide by it.

In his social contract theory, Locke emphasized the importance of individual choice in governance. He posited that people have the right to establish their own laws and government, and if the government fails to protect their rights or acts against their consent, the people have the authority to alter or abolish it. This idea was revolutionary and laid the groundwork for modern democratic principles and the concept of popular sovereignty.

This belief in self-governance was in direct contrast to ideas of absolute power, inequality, and governance by tradition, which are inconsistent with the principles of individual rights and freedoms that Locke championed. Locke's philosophy influenced the development of liberal democracy and is foundational in the creation of political systems that prioritize individual rights and self-determination.