Social Agreement Theory

The Social Agreement Theory suggests that society’s rules and governments are formed through a mutual agreement among individuals. People agree to follow certain norms and laws to ensure safety, order, and cooperation, sacrificing some personal freedoms for collective benefits. This implied agreement creates a functioning society, where authority is legitimate because it reflects the collective consent of the governed. Think of it as a voluntary contract: individuals agree to abide by shared rules so everyone can coexist peacefully and fairly.