Philosophy Social Contract Theory Questions Medium
The Social Contract Theory and the Divine Right Theory are two distinct philosophical concepts that explain the origin and legitimacy of political authority. While both theories attempt to provide a justification for political power, they differ significantly in their underlying principles and implications.
The Social Contract Theory, primarily associated with philosophers such as Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, and Jean-Jacques Rousseau, posits that political authority arises from a voluntary agreement or contract among individuals. According to this theory, individuals willingly surrender some of their natural rights and freedoms to a governing authority in exchange for protection and the establishment of a stable society. The legitimacy of political power is derived from the consent of the governed, and the government's role is to protect the rights and interests of its citizens. In this theory, the power of the government is limited and subject to the will of the people, who have the right to revoke their consent if the government fails to fulfill its obligations.
On the other hand, the Divine Right Theory asserts that political authority is derived from a higher power, typically a deity or a divine entity. This theory, historically associated with monarchies and absolute rulers, suggests that kings and queens are chosen by divine will and possess a divine right to rule. According to this perspective, political power is not subject to the consent of the governed but is instead bestowed upon rulers by a higher authority. The legitimacy of the government is based on the belief in the ruler's divine appointment, and disobedience or rebellion against the ruler is seen as a violation of divine law.
In summary, the key difference between the Social Contract Theory and the Divine Right Theory lies in the source of political authority. The Social Contract Theory emphasizes the consent of the governed and the voluntary agreement among individuals, while the Divine Right Theory attributes political power to a higher power or divine authority. The former places power in the hands of the people, with the government serving as their representative, while the latter concentrates power in the hands of a ruler who is believed to be divinely chosen.