Single Idea 20493

[catalogued under 24. Political Theory / B. Nature of a State / 2. State Legitimacy / c. Social contract]

Full Idea

Social contract theory ...satisfies the twin demands of universalism - every person must be obligated - and voluntarism - political obligations can come into existence only through consent.

Gist of Idea

Social contract theory has the attracton of including everyone, and being voluntary

Source

Jonathan Wolff (An Introduction to Political Philosophy (Rev) [2006], 2 'Voluntaristic')

Book Reference

Wolff,Jonathan: 'An Introduction to Political Philosophy (Rev)' [OUP 2006], p.40


A Reaction

I'm going off the idea that being a member of large society is voluntary. It can't possibly be so for most people, and it shouldn't be. I'm British, and society expects me to remain so (though they might release me, if convenient).