What was the main idea behind John Locke's concept of government?

The main idea behind John Locke's concept of government is that government powers are fundamentally derived from the consent of the governed. Locke argued that a legitimate government exists only if it has the approval and support of the people it governs. This principle of consent underscores the importance of individual rights and the social contract, where individuals agree to form a government that protects their natural rights—life, liberty, and property.

Locke believed that when a government fails to protect these rights or acts against the will of the people, the social contract is broken, and citizens have the right to revolt or change the government. This foundational thought significantly influenced democratic principles and the development of modern political philosophy. The emphasis on consent and the protection of individual rights distinguishes Locke's views and highlights the significance of a government's legitimacy being rooted in the people's agreement, making it a cornerstone of liberal democracy.