According to Locke, what is the natural state of human beings?

According to John Locke, a prominent philosopher of the Enlightenment era, the natural state of human beings is a state of perfect freedom and equality. This is a state where individuals are free to conduct their own affairs as they see fit, without the interference of a governing authority.

Here are the steps to understand Locke's view:

1. Locke's Concept of State of Nature: Locke's concept of the state of nature is based on a hypothetical historical account. He believed that before the establishment of society and government, individuals lived in a state of nature.

2. Perfect Freedom: In this state of nature, individuals have perfect freedom to order their actions, and dispose of their possessions and persons as they think fit, within the bounds of the law of nature. This means they can do as they please, as long as they do not harm others in their "life, health, liberty, or possessions."

3. Equality: Along with perfect freedom, Locke also believed that individuals are in a state of equality in the state of nature. This means that no one has power or jurisdiction over another, and everyone has the same advantages and the same free use of their faculties.

4. Law of Nature: Despite the freedom and equality, Locke's state of nature is not a state of license. Individuals are bound by the law of nature, which requires them to preserve themselves and others. This law of nature is based on reason and it prohibits harm to "life, health, liberty, or possessions."

5. Consent and Government: Locke believed that individuals voluntarily leave this state of nature and enter into society to secure their rights and resolve conflicts in a civil manner. This is done through mutual consent, leading to the formation of a government.

In summary, according to Locke, the natural state of human beings is a state of perfect freedom and equality, governed by the law of nature, which is discovered through reason.