Explain John Locke on consent, resistance and toleration.

John Locke, an influential English philosopher of the 17th century, articulated his views on consent, resistance, and toleration in his seminal works, particularly the "Second Treatise of Government" and the "Letter Concerning Toleration."

1. Consent:
   Locke's political philosophy is grounded in the principle of consent, which holds that legitimate political authority derives from the consent of the governed. According to Locke, individuals are born free and equal, possessing natural rights to life, liberty, and property. Governments are established by the consent of the people to secure and protect these rights. Locke emphasizes the social contract theory, wherein individuals voluntarily enter into civil society and agree to submit to the authority of a government in exchange for the protection of their rights. Consent serves as the foundation for political legitimacy, as governments derive their authority from the consent of the governed.

2. Resistance:
   Locke argues that individuals have the right to resist unjust or tyrannical government authority. While Locke advocates for obedience to legitimate governments established by consent, he also acknowledges the right of individuals to resist governments that violate their natural rights or exceed their legitimate authority. According to Locke, tyranny occurs when rulers usurp power, infringe upon individual rights, or act contrary to the public good. In such cases, Locke maintains that individuals have the right to resist and overthrow oppressive governments to restore their rights and liberties. However, Locke cautions that resistance should be undertaken judiciously and as a last resort, with the aim of establishing a just and lawful government in its place.

3. Toleration:
   Locke espouses principles of religious toleration and pluralism, arguing that the state should not interfere in matters of conscience or religious belief. In his "Letter Concerning Toleration," Locke contends that religious beliefs are matters of individual conscience and cannot be coerced by state authority. He advocates for the separation of church and state, arguing that religious diversity and freedom of conscience are essential for social harmony and civil peace. Locke maintains that governments should tolerate all religions and beliefs that do not threaten public order or violate the rights of others. Toleration, according to Locke, is a fundamental principle of liberal democracy, fostering mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and the flourishing of diverse communities.