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What does social contract theory mean?

Updated: 8/22/2023
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Shelby18

Lvl 1
11y ago

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The social contract theory holds that in earliest history man lived in a "state of nature." No government existed. Each man was only as secure as his own power and mental awareness could make him. By agreeing with one another to make a state by contract, men within a given area joined together, each surrendering personal freedom as necessary to promote the safety and well being of all. By this contract the members created a government. The social contract gives rights and responsibilities to both the citizenry and the government. For example, in The United States, citizens yield the powers of prosecution of, and punishment for, criminal offenses to the judicial branch of government. The government, for its part, bears the responsibilities of maintaining public safety for the citizens through the police, court systems, correctional facilities, and all supporting structures. Answer The poster above provides an excellent summary. To read first hand about social contract theory, pick up Leviathan by Thomas Hobbes.
A population in a place (territory) gave up power (as needed) to the government to promote the well-being of all. Doing so this created a sovereign state.

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Wiki User

7y ago
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Wiki User

11y ago

since citizens give up some rights to be part of a country the government must their citizens their first priority and must protect them

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Q: What does social contract theory mean?
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