ARCHIVES
VOL. 11, ISSUE 1 (2026)
Examining the concept of individual rights under the social contract theory: Similarities and differences between Hobbes, Locke, and Rousseau
Authors
Prokash Mandal, D R. Kantesh Kumar
Abstract
The social contract theory is a fundamental
concept in political philosophy that explores the relationship between
individuals and the state. It proposes that individuals willingly enter into a
contract with their government, agreeing to give up certain rights and freedoms
in exchange for protection and security. One crucial aspect of this theory is
the idea of individual rights, which refers to the inherent liberties possessed
by every person in society. This abstract aims to examine how three prominent
thinkers Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, and Jean-Jacques Rousseau conceptualized
individual rights within their respective versions of the social contract
theory. While these philosophers all share some similar beliefs regarding
individual rights, there are also significant differences in their
perspectives. Hobbes believed that humans naturally had no inherent rights but
were instead motivated solely by self-interests. In his view, people entered
into a social contract out of fear for their lives and property from other
individuals in a state of nature. Thus, they gave up their freedom for an
absolute sovereign who would ensure peace and order. On the other hand, Locke
viewed natural law as guiding human behaviour rather than self-interests alone.
He asserted that individuals were entitled to life, liberty, and property under
this law while still acknowledging them as having moral responsibilities
towards others.
Download
Pages:83-87
How to cite this article:
Prokash Mandal, D R. Kantesh Kumar "Examining the concept of individual rights under the social contract theory: Similarities and differences between Hobbes, Locke, and Rousseau". National Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Development, Vol 11, Issue 1, 2026, Pages 83-87
Download Author Certificate
Please enter the email address corresponding to this article submission to download your certificate.