The Enlightenment period in the 17th and 18th centuries saw the rise of influential thinkers who greatly impacted political philosophy. John Locke, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, and Thomas Hobbes proposed social contract theories that aim to explain the origins and purpose of government. In this post, we will explore these theories and their key principles.
John Locke's social contract theory emphasizes the consent of the governed and individual rights. According to Locke, individuals voluntarily enter into a social contract to form a government that protects their natural rights, including life, liberty, and property. If a government fails to fulfill its obligations, individuals have the right to rebel and establish a new government.
Formula: Government legitimacy = Consent of the governed + Protection of natural rights
For example, in the 18th century, the American colonists were inspired by Locke's ideas and believed that their rights were being violated by the British government. This led to the American Revolution and the establishment of a new government based on the principles of individual freedom and limited power.
Jean-Jacques Rousseau's social contract theory focuses on the general will and the idea of a collective decision-making process. According to Rousseau, the social contract is established by the people as a whole, and the general will represents the common interest of the community. Individual citizens should prioritize the general will over their own personal desires for the benefit of society as a whole.
Formula: General will + Common interest = Stable and just society
For instance, Rousseau argued that obeying laws that are established through a democratic decision-making process reflects the general will of the people. This allows for a stable and just society where everyone has equal participation.
Thomas Hobbes' social contract theory presents a different perspective, focusing on the necessity of an all-powerful government to prevent chaos and maintain order. Hobbes believed that the natural state of mankind is a "state of nature" where individuals are driven by self-interest and aggression. To escape this chaotic state, individuals enter into a social contract, surrendering some of their rights to a sovereign ruler who ensures peace and stability.
Formula: Sovereign ruler + Peace and stability = Social order
As an illustration, Hobbes argued that a strong monarchy is required to prevent conflicts and ensure the survival of society. This theory influenced the absolute monarchies in Europe during the 17th and 18th centuries.
John Locke, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, and Thomas Hobbes contributed significantly to the development of social contract theory during the Enlightenment. While they differed in their views on government and individual rights, all three philosophers recognized the importance of a social contract in establishing and maintaining a just and functioning society. Understanding their theories helps us analyze the foundations of modern democratic governments and their principles of consent, rule of law, and protection of individual rights.