Which theory suggests that individuals accept governance in exchange for certain rights?

Social Contract Theory is a foundational concept in political philosophy that posits individuals consent to form societies and accept certain governance structures in exchange for the protection of their rights and maintenance of order. This theory was notably advanced by philosophers such as Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, and Jean-Jacques Rousseau, each contributing different nuances to its interpretation.

According to this theory, the legitimacy of governmental authority stems from the agreement among individuals to surrender some of their freedoms and submit to the will of a governing body in return for security and the safeguard of their remaining rights. This mutual agreement creates a structured society wherein laws are established to protect citizens from harm, uphold justice, and promote the common good.

This perspective fundamentally contrasts with the notions of Utilitarianism, which prioritizes actions that maximize overall happiness rather than the explicit agreement between individuals and the state. Natural Law Theory focuses on inherent moral principles rather than the consensual basis of governance, and Rousseau's Hypothesis, while related, is more specific to Rousseau's own interpretations of social contracts and the general will rather than encapsulating the broader framework of the Social Contract Theory itself. Thus, recognizing the essence of governance as a mutually beneficial agreement aligns closely with Social Contract Theory, marking it as the correct