in the second treatise, how did locke come to the conclusion that men are equal in a state of nature?

John Locke's reasoning on natural equality in his Second Treatise of Government (Chapter II) rests on fundamental observations about human nature and creation. He argues that in the state of nature—before governments or societies form—humans are inherently equal, with no natural hierarchy authorizing domination.

Core Argument from Creation

Locke starts with a theological and rational foundation. Humans are "the workmanship of one omnipotent and infinitely wise Maker," all servants of the same sovereign Master, created for His purposes rather than one another's use.

This shared origin means no one has a divine right to rule others, as "creatures of the same species and rank, promiscuously born to all the same advantages of nature, and the use of the same faculties, should also be equal one amongst another without subordination or subjection."

Key quote : "A state also of equality, wherein all the power and jurisdiction is reciprocal, no one having more than another."

Role of Natural Law and Reason

The state of nature is governed by the law of nature , discovered through reason, which teaches that "being all equal and independent, no one ought to harm another in his life, health, liberty, or possessions."

Locke cites Richard Hooker to reinforce this: equality is "so evident in itself, and beyond all question," forming the basis for mutual love, justice, and charity.

Everyone shares "like faculties" and a "community of nature," ruling out subordination that would let one destroy another, unlike superior humans over animals.

Supporting Evidence from Locke

• No natural authority : Unlike animals or angels, humans lack visible hierarchies; any superiority (strength, intellect) is conventional, not natural.

• Preservation powers : Each person has equal rights to self-preservation and protecting others under natural law, with execution in every individual's hands.

• Community aspect : Humans form "one Community" distinct from other creatures, bound by reason rather than force.

Historical Context and Influence

Published in 1690 amid England's Glorious Revolution, Locke's ideas countered absolutism (e.g., Filmer's patriarchal divine right), influencing the Enlightenment, American founders, and modern liberalism.

He dismisses objections like "there were never any men in the state of nature" by affirming all start there until consenting to society.

TL;DR : Locke concludes equality via shared creation by God, equal rational faculties, and natural law prohibiting harm—making subordination unnatural and irrational.

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