In 1689 John Locke described the natural state of man as “a state of perfect freedom to order their actions, and dispose of their possessions and persons, as they think fit, within the bounds of the law of nature, without asking leave, or depending upon the will of any other man.”

Three hundred twenty-eight years later, as we mark the anniversary of his birth this week, Locke’s words remain essential. A collective that does not respect dissent or difference, and insists on dismissive labels, is intolerant and antithetical to the idea of individual liberty.