Locke theorized separating church and state
Philosopher John Locke's 1689 ideas pioneered the theoretical separation of church and state, promoting religious tolerance and influencing modern secular democracies.
In 1689, philosopher John Locke first articulated the theoretical separation of church and state in "A Letter Concerning Toleration." Amidst Europe's religious conflicts, he argued governments should protect civil interests, while churches handle spiritual matters. This revolutionary idea challenged the era's intertwined religious and political authority.
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