In "An Essay Concerning Human Understanding", first published in 1690, John Lock
e (1632-1704) provides a complete account of how we acquire everyday, mathematic
al, natural scientific, religious and ethical knowledge. Rejecting the theory th
at some knowledge is innate in us, Locke argues that it derives from sense perce
ptions and experience, as analysed and developed by reason. While defending thes
e central claims with vigorous common sense, Locke offers many incidental - and
highly influential - reflections on space and time, meaning, free will and perso
nal identity.
