Introduction
Social contract theory (SCT) is a concept in philosophy and politics, implying that individuals adjust their behavior in society according to rules and agreements. The exact wording of the models differs depending on the author, with Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, and Jean-Jacques Rousseau being some of the most notable philosophers who address this issue. Ultimately, the current essay examines the social contract theory and the perspectives of Hobbes, Lock, and Rousseau on the topic.
Social Contract Theory Overview
As mentioned before, the core idea of SCT concerns the relationship of governance between individuals and society. Thomas Hobbes was the pioneer of the theory, explaining that any group of people inevitably chooses a “sovereign” that governs the society (Adie par. 18). This ruler achieves political power in exchange for granting protection to smaller groups of people. According to Hobbes, it is a natural agreement/contract between individuals and society that governs them (Adie par. 19). John Locke had a more liberal perspective, implying that one individual in power cannot represent a whole society, and more objective institutions are necessary (Adie par. 12). He advocated for the development of legal organizations and judiciary branches of political power that can formulate just contracts in society.
Lastly, Rousseau perceived a social contract between an individual and society as a problem. He wrote, “Man was born free, and he is everywhere in chains,” emphasizing the restrictive element of the theory (“Social Contract” par. 31). He devoted his works to the research of individual freedoms, believing that all people are equal, and political power should be restricted (“Social Contract”). Ultimately, all three authors had slightly different perspectives on social contract theory, revolving around the balance between individual and societal rights.
Conclusion
Social contract theory has been a prominent and heavily debated concept in philosophy and politics since the age of Socrates. In the 16th century, Hobbes renewed the topic of social contracts, stating that people need a “sovereign” power to function as a society. Consequent authors, including Locke and Rousseau, had significantly more optimistic theories, allocating more freedoms to individuals and claiming that the political power of society should be restricted instead. In summary, SCT remains a debated topic regarding the emergence of society and the allocation of power between individuals and political regimes.
Works Cited
Adie, Amanda. “Where Do I Sign? Locke’s and Hobbes’ Social Contract Theories Explained.”The Collector, Web.
“Social Contract Theory.”Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy: A Peer-Reviewed Academic Resource, Web.