What is a 'Social Contract'?

A 'Social Contract' refers to a theoretical framework in political philosophy where individuals come together to collectively agree on the formation of a government. This agreement establishes a governing body that is tasked with protecting the rights and freedoms of its citizens. The essence of the social contract is the understanding that individuals consent to surrender some of their freedoms and submit to the authority of the government in exchange for protection of their remaining rights. This concept is foundational in various political theories, especially those attributed to philosophers such as Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, and Jean-Jacques Rousseau, who each shed light on the implications of such an agreement.

In contrast, other options provide a different viewpoint on the nature of government. For instance, the idea that government power comes from military force suggests a coercive establishment devoid of mutual consent, while denying the existence of government diverges entirely from the foundational premise of governance as outlined in social contract theory. Lastly, a pact between states focuses on intergovernmental agreements rather than the foundational agreement among individuals to create governance. Therefore, the correct understanding of the 'Social Contract' centers on the collective agreement for creating a government to protect individual rights.