The Social Contract Theory: Origin Of Societies And Governments

The Social Contract Theory

In the subject of political philosophy, social contract refers to a theory that explains the origin of the society and the origin of the legitimate authority that is granted to a state over an individual. Social contract argues that there exists some form of agreement whether enforced or willingly for individuals to surrender certain freedoms to the state to take control over so as to bring forth common benefits. In other words, the social contract theory seeks to explain the origin of societies and governments. There exist numerous proponents of this theory who include Thomas Hobbes and Hugo Grotius among others. Hobbes argued that the idea of social contract arose from pure self interest. As in any other type of

In simple terms, classical liberalism is a theory of liberty. Philosophers who supported this theory included Adam Smith, John Locke and Thomas Malthus among others. Smith insisted on a free economy that is controlled by forces of nature. He argued that, the natural forces of demand and supply can yield maximum economic benefits. While Smith’s argument was based on economic terms, Locke argued in the line of individual rights. Locke advocated for authority that came from within and not from the state. In such, he stated that individuals ought to be let free to choose their religion and establish wealth without having the state interference (Goodman,

Marx was later supported by a fellow German philosopher known as Friedrich Engles. This theory has influenced numerous movements in the past. It includes a sociological theory, revolutionary view of social change, philosophical method and the economic theory. Marxism acts as an eye opener to understanding the complexity of the society, struggles within social classes, economics and politics. Therefore, this acts as an empowerment for people to strive and go beyond the traditional believes of ignorance (Karl Marx and Marxism, n.d).

Communitrianism theory is a philosophical theory that bases focus on lowering the focus on individual freedom and rights while putting pressure on communal responsibilities. In this case, the definition of a community refers to a group of people such as a family, church, political group or state. This theory is based on three principles which are co-operative validation of any information, co-operative validation of values and equal participation and access to power in the society. This theory was supported by numerous philosophers who include Aristotle, Francis Bacon, Robert Owen and Henry tam among