Question

With Rousseau, we have the first social contract theorist who advocates democracy (recall that Locke advocated limited monarchy and Hobbes wanted an absolute monarchy). Describe how Rousseau’s social contract theory differs from that of Hobbes and Locke.

Answer 1

Soln. Differences are cited below -

• Rousseau had given importance to the individual freedom and social contract developed by him, considered no importance for government and he believed that individuals should create their own government. On the other hand, Hobbes believed that society should always be led by a strong form of government.
• For Hobbes, society without leader leads to war and dispute among individuals.On the other hand, Rousseau and Locke believed that society without monarchy leads to the real development of society as people governs themselves.
• For Rousseau, there is no significance of positions as all individual should be treated equally.On the other hand, Hobbes believed in designating people to assign roles and responsibilities.
• Rousseau and Locke favored direct democracy where as Hobbes believed in monarchy system.
• Hobbes believes in human self interest and monarchy. Locke gives importance to life, liberty and property. Rousseau believes in direct democracy.