‘Discourses Concerning Government ‘ Synopsis
This PDF is a facsimile of the 1698 version of Discourses on Government. Algernon Sydney was killed under the order of the king for challenging his “divine right” to reign. This test was written to reply to Patriarcha published in 1680 and written by Sir Robert Filmer. Filmer asserted that royal absolutism and divine right were what allowed kings to rule.
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“A general presumption that Icings will govern well, is not a sufficient security to the People… those who subjected themselves to the will of a man were governed by a beast.”
-Algernon Sydney
In Discourses Concerning Government Sydney defends republicanism and popular government. All the while rejecting Filmer’s theories. Sidney rejected Filmer’s theories.
Instead, Algernon asserted that kingship should be based on the merits and approval of the people.
Sydney’s actions were so prolific and notable that Jefferson considered Sydney to be one of the sources of The Declaration of Independence.
