key term - Social contract

Definition

A social contract is an implicit agreement among members of a society to cooperate for social benefits, such as protection and security, by sacrificing some individual freedoms for state protection. It outlines the rights and responsibilities of the government and its citizens to ensure societal stability and order.

Related terms

State of Nature:

A theoretical condition before the establishment of government and laws, where humans live without a social contract, resulting in potential conflict and chaos due to lack of formal protection.

Sovereignty:

The authority of a state to govern itself or another state, often derived from the social contract where citizens agree to abide by the laws and decisions made by their sovereign government.

Civil Rights:

The rights of citizens to political and social freedom and equality, often protected under the terms of the social contract through laws and judicial decisions ensuring individual liberties are respected by the government