Social contract theory is a political theory that suggests individuals give up some freedoms in exchange for protection and other benefits provided by society or government. According to this theory, governments exist to serve their citizens' best interests based on mutual agreements.
Think of social contract theory as entering into a roommate agreement with your housemates. You all agree to follow certain rules (like cleaning up after yourselves) in order to create a harmonious living environment. In return, you receive benefits like shared expenses and companionship.
Jean-Jacques Rousseau: A philosopher who further developed social contract theory with his book "The Social Contract," which focused on popular sovereignty (the idea that power resides with the people).
State of Nature: A concept used by philosophers to describe hypothetical pre-government conditions where there are no established laws or social structures.
Leviathan: A book written by Thomas Hobbes, another influential philosopher, which argues for the necessity of a strong central authority to prevent chaos and ensure social order.
Which Enlightenment philosopher promoted the concept of natural rights and the social contract theory?
Who wrote "Two Treatises of Government" and greatly influenced enlightened thinkers with his social contract theory?
Which Enlightenment philosopher is best known for advocating social contract theory?
Who was the French philosopher who popularized the social contract theory during the Enlightenment?
Which 18th-century French philosopher is best known for his work on social contract theory?
Who is the philosopher that developed social contract theory during Enlightenment?
Which philosopher is known for his social contract theory during the Enlightenment Era?
How did Thomas Hobbes' "Leviathan," advocating absolute monarchy based on social contract theory, influence political thought?
How did Rousseau's social contract theory limit the usefulness of his work to monarchists?
Who among these philosophers is associated with social contract theory during The Enlightenment?
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