We are thrilled to announce that two of our Sixth Form students were shortlisted in the prestigious John Locke Global Essay Competition, hosted by Oxford and Princeton Universities!
The John Locke Global Essay Competition is an international academic competition that encourages young minds to engage in critical thinking, philosophical debate, and the art of clear expression. Named after John Locke, the influential 17th-century English philosopher and political theorist, the prize aims to inspire students to explore challenging intellectual concepts and present their ideas in an articulate and persuasive manner.
Categories and topics
Each year, the John Locke Global Essay Competition covers several philosophical and political categories, with topics designed to stretch the imagination and test students’ reasoning abilities. Previous years have included topics such as:
- Philosophy: “Is it better to be a human dissatisfied than a pig satisfied?”
- Politics: “What is the role of government in ensuring the common good?”
- Economics: “Does the pursuit of wealth necessarily lead to inequality?”
- History: “Was the Enlightenment more beneficial or harmful to society?”
Students are encouraged to select a topic within their chosen category and present their argument in a well-structured, logical essay. The key to success lies not just in knowing what Locke might have thought, but in applying his ideas to contemporary debates and demonstrating independent thought.
This was a fantastic opportunity, and Teia had the opportunity to attend the Gala Dinner and Awards Ceremony in London last weekend with our Assistant Head, Mrs. Trafford. It was an inspiring evening, highlighted by a speech from Liz Truss, and attended by students from some of the world’s leading schools.
- Start Early: Good essays require time. Begin your research and writing well in advance of the deadline to allow for thorough thinking and multiple drafts.
- Understand Locke’s Ideas: While it’s not necessary to agree with Locke, understanding his key ideas—such as empiricism, the social contract, and individual rights—will help you frame your arguments.
- Be Original: The judges value originality. Don’t just rehash common arguments; instead, try to present a unique perspective or a novel application of Locke’s philosophy to modern issues.
- Structure is Key: A well-organised essay is crucial. Ensure your argument flows logically, with clear paragraphs and a strong introduction and conclusion.
- Seek Feedback: Show your draft to teachers, mentors, or peers. Constructive criticism can help refine your ideas and polish your essay before submission.
The John Locke Global Essay Competition is an exciting opportunity for young scholars to dive deep into philosophy, refine their writing skills, and gain international recognition for their intellectual efforts. By challenging students to think critically and engage with important philosophical questions, the competition not only celebrates the legacy of John Locke but also fosters the next generation of thinkers and leaders. We’re so proud to have been represented at this event and are excited for our students’ participation in John Locke 2025!