Exam 13: The Social Contract Tradition: the Theory and Its Attractions

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Contractarians generally take a skeptical attitude toward the state, viewing it as a necessary evil rather than a positive force. They believe that individuals come together to form a social contract, giving up some of their freedoms in exchange for protection and security provided by the state. However, they also believe that the state should be limited in its power and authority, and that individuals should have the right to challenge and resist the state if it oversteps its bounds.

According to contractarianism, state power can be justified through the consent of the governed, as long as it is used to protect the rights and freedoms of individuals. The state's authority is derived from the voluntary agreement of its citizens, and it is legitimate only as long as it serves the common good and respects individual rights.

In terms of breaking the law, contractarianism allows for the possibility of civil disobedience in certain circumstances. If the state violates the terms of the social contract by infringing on individual rights or acting unjustly, individuals may be justified in breaking the law as a form of protest or resistance. However, this should be done with careful consideration of the potential consequences and with the goal of bringing about positive change within the system.

Overall, contractarianism acknowledges the importance of the state in providing order and security, but also emphasizes the need for limitations on state power and the right of individuals to challenge and resist unjust authority.