Who was the British philosopher that suggested government is meant to protect the natural rights of individuals?

The British philosopher who suggested that government is meant to protect the natural rights of individuals is John Locke. His philosophy is foundational in political theory, particularly concerning the role of government in safeguarding the inherent rights of individuals, such as life, liberty, and property. Locke argued that individuals consent to form governments to protect these rights and that the legitimacy of a government depends on its ability to fulfill this role. If a government fails to protect these rights, he believed citizens have the right to alter or abolish it.

Locke's ideas greatly influenced democratic thought and the development of modern political systems, including the formulation of the U.S. Declaration of Independence. His emphasis on natural rights contributes significantly to our understanding of the purpose and moral basis of government, leading to an enduring legacy in the discourse on individual rights and freedoms.