What does social contract theory propose about the origins of government?

Social contract theory posits that the origins of government stem from an implicit agreement among individuals to form a society in exchange for certain benefits and protections. This theory, popularized by philosophers like Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, and Jean-Jacques Rousseau, suggests that individuals consent to surrender some of their freedoms and submit to the authority of a governing body in order to ensure their safety and maintain social order.

By giving up a portion of their liberty, individuals gain the advantages of living in a structured society where laws protect them from harm and provide for the common good. This idea underscores the reciprocal relationship between the governed and the government: citizens agree to obey laws in exchange for protection and the maintenance of societal order. This concept is central to understanding the justification for government authority and is fundamental in discussions about individual rights and civic responsibilities within the framework of political philosophy.