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.
Answer
A
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.
B
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.
C
If only one person has the authority to rule, the people will always eventually conflict with that ruler, so divine right undermines civil society.
D
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.
Explanation
Locke argues that if a ruler’s authority comes only from divine right, then only the person who can prove that right may claim people’s obedience. No one else can legitimately exercise authority based on human judgment or consent. That leaves no basis for other government officials or institutions to govern, so Locke says the doctrine undermines government at its roots. This matches choice A.
AI-written and checked against the verified answer.