Thomas Jefferson identified John Locke as one of “the three greatest men that have ever lived, without any exception.” Many debates in modern political theory have their roots in the writings of John Locke, and Locke’s work on other philosophical issues, particularly identity and selfhood, have also influenced generations of philosophers. What was Locke’s influence on contemporary political theory and our understanding of the purpose of government? John and Ken derive their power from the consent of their guest, William Uzgalis from Oregon State University, author of Locke’s Essay Concerning Human Understanding: A Reader’s Guide.