Question

Read the passage from Two Treatises of Government (1690) by John Locke.

This paternal, regal power being by divine right only his, it leaves no room for human prudence, or consent, to place it any where else; for if only one man hath a divine right to the obedience of mankind, no body can claim that obedience, but he that can shew that right; nor can men’s consciences, by any other pretence, be obliged to it. And thus, this doctrine cuts up all government by the roots.

Which statement best explains an Enlightenment position on the divine right to rule?

If only one person has the authority to rule, then no one else, even members of government, may have authority, so divine right undermines civil society.
If only one person has the authority to rule, there should be no confusion about how to follow the law, so divine right supports the goals of civil society.
If only one person has the authority to rule, the people will always eventually conflict with that ruler, so divine right undermines civil society.
If only one person has the authority to rule, all of the public servants they appoint will act in good faith, so divine right supports the goals of civil society.

Answer 1

If only one person has the authority to rule, then no one else, even members of government, may have authority, so divine right undermines civil society.

Locke argues the doctrine leaves “no room for human prudence, or consent” and “cuts up all government by the roots,” meaning it prevents legitimate shared authority and consent-based governance.