Social Contract Theory

Definition

Social contract theory is a philosophical concept that posits that individuals consent, either explicitly or implicitly, to form a society and establish a government in exchange for protection of their rights and maintenance of social order. This theory emphasizes the agreement among individuals to create and abide by laws for the collective good, thus linking personal freedom with civil responsibility.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Social contract theory is foundational to democratic principles, influencing the framing of government and individual rights.
2. The Declaration of Independence reflects social contract ideas by asserting that governments derive their power from the consent of the governed.
3. John Locke's interpretation of social contract theory emphasized individual rights and the right to revolt against unjust governments.
4. Social contract theory served as a justification for the American Revolution, asserting that colonists had the right to break away from Britain due to failure to protect their rights.
5. The concept has evolved over time, influencing various political ideologies and debates about government authority and individual liberties.

Review Questions

• How does social contract theory connect to the ideas expressed in the Declaration of Independence?
  • Social contract theory connects closely to the Declaration of Independence by underscoring the belief that governments are formed based on the consent of the governed. The document states that when a government becomes destructive of individual rights, it is not only the right but also the duty of the people to alter or abolish it. This reflects the essence of social contract theory, where the government's legitimacy hinges on its protection of natural rights.
• In what ways did John Locke's version of social contract theory differ from that of Thomas Hobbes, especially in relation to governance?
  • John Locke's version of social contract theory differed significantly from Thomas Hobbes' view in terms of human nature and governance. While Hobbes believed in a strong authoritarian government to prevent chaos in a state of nature, Locke emphasized individual rights and self-governance. Locke argued that people are rational and capable of governing themselves, and thus should have the right to overthrow any government that fails to protect their rights.
• Evaluate how social contract theory has influenced modern political thought regarding government accountability and individual rights.
  • Social contract theory has had a profound impact on modern political thought by establishing a framework for understanding government accountability and individual rights. It promotes the idea that citizens have not only rights but also responsibilities towards their government. This relationship is critical in democratic societies where citizens hold the power to influence governance through voting and activism. The principles rooted in social contract theory continue to shape discussions around civil liberties, social justice, and ethical governance today.

Related terms

Natural Rights: Fundamental rights that individuals possess by virtue of being human, often seen as life, liberty, and property.

Consent of the Governed: The principle that a government's legitimacy comes from the consent of those it governs, indicating that authority is derived from the will of the people.

Thomas Hobbes: A philosopher who contributed significantly to social contract theory, arguing that in a state of nature, life would be 'solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short,' necessitating a strong central authority.