Michael Makovi

John Locke, one of the intellectual pioneers of classical liberalism, gained significant popularity as an advocate of liberty. Though John Locke’s ideas greatly influenced the intellectual underpinnings of the American Revolution, little attention has been given to the exploration of Locke’s writings on freedom of association. This chapter aims to dive into Locke’s ideas surrounding freedom of association as presented in two of his major works, namely A Letter Concerning Toleration and Second Treatise of Government. By following Locke’s reasoning, one can assert that freedom of association serves as a fundamental prerequisite for civil society since it represents the initial choice necessary for the establishment of any society. It is through this freedom that individuals can transcend the state of nature. Additionally, this chapter also explores the importance given by Locke to freedom of association within a civil society, specifically relating to the topic of freedom of religion.