A Letter Concerning Toleration

A Letter Concerning Toleration is a book written by the English philosopher John Locke in 1689. The book is a response to the ongoing religious conflicts in Europe during the 17th century, particularly in England. In the book, Locke argues for the separation of church and state and the importance of religious toleration. He argues that the government should not interfere with the religious beliefs and practices of its citizens, as long as they do not harm others. Locke also criticizes the idea of religious persecution and argues that it is not effective in promoting religious unity or stability. The book was influential in shaping the development of religious tolerance in Europe and the United States. It is considered one of the most important works on religious toleration and political philosophy.For whatsoever some people boast of the antiquity of places and names, or of the pomp of their outward worship; others, of the reformation of their discipline; all, of the orthodoxy of their faith -- for everyone is orthodox to himself -- these things, and all others of this nature, are much rather marks of men striving for power and empire over one another than of the Church of Christ.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.