The concept of "general will" refers to the collective desire or interest that represents what is best for society as a whole, rather than individual desires or interests.
Related terms
Social Contract Theory: A political theory where individuals give up certain rights to form a government that protects their remaining rights.
Democracy: A system of government in which power is vested in the people, who exercise it directly or through elected representatives.
John Locke: An Enlightenment thinker who emphasized natural rights and believed governments should be based on consent of the governed.