Of the Conduct of the Understanding

Of the Conduct of the Understanding is a book about thinking clearly and making good choices written by John Locke. It was published in 1706, two years after Locke passed away, as part of a collection called Posthumous Works of John Locke. This book goes well with another one by Locke called Some Thoughts Concerning Education, which talks about how to help children learn.

In his book, Locke explains why it is important to look closely at our own thoughts and feelings. He believed that being honest with ourselves and thinking in a logical way helps us stay healthy in our minds. According to Locke, keeping our minds clear and pure was very connected to watching our own thoughts carefully.

Locke also wrote about how even ordinary people can understand deep ideas about life and beliefs. He gave examples from groups like the Huguenot communities. Later, another writer named George Berkeley talked about similar ideas in a sermon he gave in New England. Even though he had different thoughts, some people in Rhode Island, including members of the Redwood Library and Athenaeum, kept Locke's book in their personal libraries.