Abstract

This paper explores the duty of charity as a new interpretation key for the lockean theory of property. First, I explicit its demands, deontic status, and theological andphilosophical foundations. This analysis is complemented by a consideration of a brief essay of 1697, in which Locke proposed a reform of the elizabethan English Poor Law. As a result of this examination I conclude that even though the duty of charity does not compromise any property rights, it presupposes a minimal core of redistributive justice.