Lost Theory: John Locke is the Economist
by lostofficehero on Feb.17, 2008, under tv
Just by name association, John Locke can be the Economist that was Ben’s enemy in the third episode of season 4. John Locke, in real life, was an English Philosopher. What does that have to do with economics? Well, Locke was also one of the pioneers of the most basic principle of economics: supply and demand.
Another connection between Locke and Lost is that Locke believed in the concept of tabula rasa. That’s the ideaology that inherently denies the Christian belief that man is born into sin. It essentially states that man is born with a clean slate and, ultimately, a personality is developed from their experiences and surroundings. Tabula Rasa was the title of Kate-centric third episode of Lost (Season 1). It’s now clear that the Island is a sort of tabula rasa for all of the survivors of the crash. A clean slate, but also a seoncd chance at having their personalities molded by their (strange) surroundings. Some of them realize this, and that’s why they don’t want to leave.
Could it be that simple? That John Locke is the Economist? Is he issuing orders from the Island (30 minute delay while planning with Elsa?). Or is it Ben playing multiple roles and manipulating people to his advantage. Or is there a huge twist and we find out that it’s Richard – the guy that doesn’t seem to age. Only time will tell – question is, real time or Island time?
