Social Contract Theory Lecture Notes

Introduction to Social Contract Theory

• Focuses on the origin and function of the state.
• Examines the social, political, and economic conditions of France during Rousseau's time (1712-1778).

Context of France During Rousseau's Time

• France governed by the Louis Dynasty (specifically Louis XIV).
• Monarchy was authoritarian, self-serving, and exploited ordinary people.
• Society was primarily agricultural; common people were heavily taxed while landlords and royalty were exempt.

Key Issues

• Ordinary people were exploited by both the monarchy and landlords.
• Most tax revenue went to royal luxuries and wars.
• Common people viewed the state as a symbol of oppression.

Rousseau's Response

• Rousseau aimed to liberate people from the state's exploitation.
• His social contract theory was designed to free ordinary people from landlords and the monarchy.
• Notable quote: "Man is born free, but everywhere he is in chains."

Concepts of Property and Freedom

• Property and freedom are crucial elements in Rousseau's theory.
• Critiques the notion that property is a natural right.
• Argues that the establishment of property led to social inequality and loss of freedom.

Human Nature According to Rousseau

• Human beings are born neither good nor bad, but as "noble savages" who follow instincts.
• The introduction of property leads to the development of societal norms of good and bad.
• Transition from a solitary, peaceful life in the state of nature to conflict over property.

The Social Contract

• People enter a social contract to restore their freedoms lost to property and society.
• Rights are surrendered not to individuals, but to the "general will" of the community.
• General will represents the common good and mutual interests of the community.

General Will

• Defined as the will that works for the collective interest of people.
• Can be represented by either majority or minority opinions.
• The synthesis of actual will (selfish interests) and real will (common good).

Features of the State

• The social contract creates an artificial state that is meant to protect individual liberties.
• State should ensure freedom from oppression by others and from its own institutions.
• The state exists as a means to achieve individual freedom and liberty.

Critiques and Implications

• Rousseau's ideas contributed to revolutionary thoughts in France.
• His theory emphasizes the need for accountability and freedom within governance.
• The balance between liberty and state power is a recurring theme in discussions about governance.

Conclusion

• Rousseau is considered the intellectual father of modern concepts of liberty and the French Revolution.
• Ongoing debates exist about the implications of his theory for state power and individual freedoms.