The social contract theory is the idea that individuals willingly give up some of their natural rights in order to form a government that will protect their remaining rights and promote the common good.
Related terms
Natural Rights: These are basic rights inherent to every individual, such as life, liberty, and property.
Common Good: This refers to policies or actions taken by the government that benefit society as a whole rather than specific individuals or groups.
Consent of the Governed: This principle states that governments derive their power from the consent or agreement of the people they govern.