Lesson 70 of 84 · Natural Law
⭐ 30 XP🏛️ Civic Squarenatural-law: Lesson 70
The concept of social contract theory is closely tied to natural law, as it describes the implicit agreement among individuals to form a society.
🎯 Your mission
Decide what YOU would do in their shoes.
⚡ The twist
Not voting is also a vote.
Mind = Blown
🤯 In ancient Athens, 'democracy' only included about 10% of the people.
Then & Now
🏛️ The rule you'll meet today is still on the books — sort of.
The concept of social contract theory is closely tied to natural law, as it describes the implicit agreement among individuals to form a society. Philosophers like Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, and Rousseau each had unique interpretations of this theory. Hobbes believed that people would surrender some freedoms to a sovereign authority to ensure safety, while Locke argued that the government's primary role is to protect natural rights. Rousseau took a different approach, suggesting that true freedom can only be achieved through collective governance. This debate over the social contract continues to influence modern political thought and discussions of government legitimacy.
Key Facts
Social contract theory explains the agreement among individuals to form societies.
Hobbes viewed the social contract as a means to ensure safety.
Locke believed the government should protect natural rights.
Check Your Understanding
Question 1
1 of 2What is the primary purpose of government according to John Locke?
Why this still matters
Your school has rules. Where do they come from? Who decides them?
Stretch Challenge
Try this in real life this week.
Make up a fair rule for your family. Pitch it.
For the dinner table
“What's one rule at our house you'd change if you could vote on it?”
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