The Function of a Social Contract - 1676 Words

What is the Function of a Social Contract? Philosophers have been concerned with the theories of a social contract for thousands of years. Plato mentions the concept in Crito and in Republic. These theories have stemmed from the concept of justice and for our society to be just. I will look at the works of Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, Jean Jacques Rousseau and finally with John Rawls after which a overall view into the function of a social contract can be derived as well as any problems with the theory(s). The basic concept of a social contract is for members of society to enter into a voluntary contract, which allows society to go from a state of nature to a state of civilisation. What is meant by a state of nature is quite similar to how†¦show more content†¦Rousseau attempted to tackle this by the fact that for a society to be set up there is a need for unanimity and  ¡Ã‚ ¥the majority binds the rest ¡Ã‚ ¦. This concept can also be threatened by a corrupt government who can appear to be projecting the general will when they are just serving their own ends and benefits. John Rawls is regarded as one of the most important political philosophers of the twentieth century. His works included the theory of Justice and Justice as Fairness. He is particularly concerned with the concept of justice in a society. The question is raised on what would be regarded as a just society. Rawls basically stated that just was seen as fairness. Arguments are also raised on why there should b e a just society. This was tackled by the fact that there are many injustices in society and this needed to be remedied. There is however no example of a just society existent in the world today. Also if there is no existence of justice how can we know what injustice really is. It is important to remember that because of this that the concept is an ideal type. It can be used to measure existing societies against this ideal type. This also provides society with a goal and the will to move towards improvements. It is safe to say that it is a process not a product. Rawls theory was formulated after the other thinkers already mentioned. He tried to develop his theory with regards to them, as well as striking similarities to the Kantian view ofShow MoreRelatedEssay on What is the Function of a Social Contract?1637 Words   |  7 Pages What is the Function of a Social Contract? Philosophers have been concerned with the theories of a social contract for thousands of years. Plato mentions the concept in Crito and in Republic. These theories have stemmed from the concept of justice and for our society to be just. I will look at the works of Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, Jean Jacques Rousseau and finally with John Rawls after which a overall view into the function of a social contract can be derived as well as any problems with theRead MoreModern Liberalism and Political Policies1337 Words   |  6 PagesState of Nature. Their notions on the social contract reflect their position on the political spectrum. These three philosophers also examine the purpose and function of the government to individuals of the state. Modern liberalism is the philosophical standpoint for an increase in social progress. 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