Locke's Case for Religious Toleration: Its Neglected Foundation in theEssay Concerning Human Understanding

Abstract

Although the Essay Concerning Human Understanding is considered Locke's magnum opus, its relation to his political philosophy has been a perennial puzzle for scholars. Scholars have typically focused on the question of Locke's natural law doctrine in the Essay and the Two Treatises. This article takes a different approach to uncovering the political significance of the Essay by relating the theological importance of its epistemology to Locke's doctrine of religious toleration as found in the Letter Concerning Toleration. Crucial arguments supporting Locke's case for religious toleration are to be found, not in the Letter, but in the Essay, which seeks to elevate a limited but relatively uncontroversial natural theology above the disputed uncertainties inherent to revealed theology. Though not on the surface a political work, the Essay is fundamental to Locke's political theology of toleration.

John Locke: The “Jocose Problem” and the Theoretical Foundation of Toleration

“…I am indebted to Judd Owen for pointing out the intimate connection between the theoretical arguments of the Essay as a supplement to political arguments presented in the Letter (J. Owen 2015, 66–84, 91–99; J.J. Owen 2007). Owen rightfully emphasizes crucial chapters in Essay IV .…”

“…37.Locke professes himself to be a believer, yet “ignorant of the way.” “God alone” can judge (Locke 1983, 36, 37, 49). This is likely the most powerful claim in the Letter for the need to tolerate a diversity of religious opinions, but its basis is unclear in the text (J.J. Owen 2007). …”