Main characteristics of the Social Contract Theory of Locke:
The following are the main characteristics of the Social Contract Theory of Locke:
1. The establishment of the state is by the will of the people. Hence, state is the result of public consensus.
2. In this process, there happened to be two contracts. By the first contract, society was formed, and by the second contract, the state was established.
3. In the first contract, all the people dedicate their rights not to an individual or group of people, but to the society.
4. In the second contract, the state is also a party. And as such, it is the responsibility of the king to protect the natural rights of the people.
5. Under the contract, a limited and dignified monarchy is established.
6. The contract clarifies the distinction between the state and the government. The first contract is stable, whereas the second contract is unstable. The duties of the both are distinct. In the way, this theory supports the principle of division of powers.
7. This contract provides the right of revolution to the people if the ruler becomes autocratic.
