What is the primary goal of a social contract?

The primary goal of a social contract is to create social agreements for mutual benefit. This concept, rooted in political philosophy, asserts that individuals consent to give up certain freedoms and submit to the authority of a ruler or government in exchange for protection of their remaining rights and maintenance of social order. The idea is that by entering into a social contract, individuals shape a cooperative society where everyone agrees on rules and governance to achieve a more stable and secure coexistence.

This mutual benefit aspect emphasizes the collaboration and shared interests of individuals in a society, seeking to enhance collective well-being while also safeguarding personal rights. It embodies the foundational principles of democracy, highlighting that legitimate government authority arises from the consent of the governed, underscoring the importance of cooperation for a functioning society.

In contrast, while limiting government intervention in daily life can be an aspect of a social contract, it is too narrow to capture its primary objective. Establishing individual freedoms aligns with the ideals of a social contract but is part of a broader context of mutual agreements. Outlining taxation policies, while important in governance, is a specific function that may arise from the social contract rather than its overarching purpose.