Final answer:
John Locke's idea of the 'right of revolution' allows people to overthrow a corrupt government that fails to protect their natural rights. This principle was fundamental to the American Founding Fathers and influenced the U.S. Constitution.
Step-by-step explanation:
In John Locke's political philosophy, he argued that people have the right and indeed an obligation to change or overthrow a government if it fails to protect their natural rights. This concept is known as the right of revolution.
In his work, especially the Two Treatises of Government, Locke dismissed the divine right of kings and advocated for a system of government that derives its power from the consent of the governed.
Central to his thought was the principle that a government exists for the benefit of the people, and if it becomes corrupt or fails in its duty, the people should replace it with one that ensures justice, stability, and the protection of life, liberty, and property.
These ideas greatly influenced the Founding Fathers of the United States, laying the groundwork for the American Revolution and the eventual establishment of the U.S. Constitution.