Social Contract Theory and Aristotle's Views

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What is social contract theory?

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Social contract theory is the view that people's moral and political obligations depend on an agreement among them to form the society in which they live.

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Who is associated with the first full exposition of social contract theory?

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Thomas Hobbes is associated with the first full exposition and defense of social contract theory.

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Which philosophers are known proponents of social contract theory after Hobbes?

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John Locke and Jean-Jacques Rousseau are known proponents of social contract theory after Hobbes.

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What did Aristotle believe about the relationship between individuals and society?

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Aristotle believed that virtuous lives of individuals are supported by the political community, and that being a member of society is the natural state of man.

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According to Aristotle, what is necessary for a complete human life?

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Life in a community (the city) is necessary for a complete human life.

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What does Aristotle mean by 'the city'?

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For Aristotle, 'the city' represents the pinnacle of societal structure, starting from families to villages and then to cities.

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What is more important according to Aristotle, the interests of the city or the individual?

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The interests of the city are more important than those of the individual.

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What is the role of justice in Aristotle's view of society?

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Justice is a political virtue that regulates the state and is essential for a just society.

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How does Aristotle define a just society?

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A just society has no fixed rules; a virtuous person chooses just actions and understands why they are just.

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What is the significance of human nature in social contract theories?

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Social contract theories assume that humans are rational beings who understand the benefits of regulations and principles.