PHIL 146 Lecture : Social Contract Theory

• School: Binghamton University
• Department: Philosophy
• Course: PHIL 146
• Professor: Mattias G.Iser

Document Summary

Social contract theory is a thought experiment to legitimize the state, an argument against anarchy, and for a specific kind of political order. Locke tries to justify a constitutional govt. In the 17th century, capitalism is evolving, so contracts were very powerful. Has to be voluntary to be legit. Both sides have to be in agreement. This is a hypothetical contract obv. (thought experiment) By hypothetically signing for anarchists, we are doing them a favor. New and revolutionary idea of law and politics back then.