Modern social contract theory

Definition

Modern social contract theory is a political and moral philosophy that posits that the legitimacy of governmental authority arises from an implicit agreement among individuals to form a society. This agreement outlines the rights and responsibilities of both the governed and the governing, emphasizing the need for consent and mutual benefit as the foundation of political legitimacy.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Modern social contract theory emerged in the 17th and 18th centuries, primarily through the works of philosophers like Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, and Jean-Jacques Rousseau.
2. In contrast to Hobbes, who viewed humans in a negative light, Locke believed that individuals are naturally reasonable and capable of self-governance.
3. Rousseau's version emphasizes community and collective decision-making over individualism, arguing that true freedom comes from aligning personal interests with the general will.
4. The theory has been foundational in shaping modern democratic principles, influencing constitutional design and civil rights discussions across various nations.
5. Critics argue that social contract theory can overlook issues of power imbalances and marginalized voices in society, raising questions about whose consent is represented.

Review Questions

• How does modern social contract theory explain the relationship between individuals and government?
  • Modern social contract theory explains that individuals agree to form a society by consenting to certain rules and structures that govern them. This relationship is based on mutual benefit, where individuals relinquish some freedoms in exchange for security and order provided by a governing body. The legitimacy of government is thus derived from this agreement, meaning it should act in the best interest of its citizens.
• Compare and contrast the views of Hobbes and Locke regarding human nature and its implications for social contract theory.
  • Hobbes viewed human nature as inherently selfish and violent, leading him to argue for a strong sovereign authority to prevent chaos. In contrast, Locke had a more optimistic view, believing that people are rational and capable of cooperation. This fundamental difference impacts their versions of social contract theory; while Hobbes advocates for absolute power in governance for safety, Locke supports a government that protects individual rights and promotes liberty.
• Evaluate how modern social contract theory addresses contemporary issues of governance and citizenship rights.
  • Modern social contract theory can be used to analyze contemporary governance by examining how well governments uphold the consent of the governed in relation to citizenship rights. Issues like voter disenfranchisement or unequal representation challenge the premise that all voices are considered in societal agreements. By assessing these modern contexts through the lens of social contract theory, we can better understand power dynamics and advocate for reforms that ensure inclusivity and fairness in political representation.

Related terms

Hobbesian Contract: The idea that in a state of nature, individuals consent to surrender some of their freedoms to a sovereign authority to ensure peace and protection.

Rousseau's General Will: A concept introduced by Jean-Jacques Rousseau, referring to the collective will of the people that aims for the common good, which should guide government actions.

Consent of the Governed: The principle that a government's legitimacy and moral right to use state power is justified and lawful only when derived from the consent of the people.