Which philosopher is associated with the idea of the "social contract"?

The philosopher most famously associated with the idea of the "social contract" is Jean-Jacques Rousseau. In his work "The Social Contract," Rousseau argues that individuals come together to form a collective society through a mutual agreement, relinquishing some of their freedoms in exchange for the protection and benefits of communal living. This concept emphasizes the idea of popular sovereignty, suggesting that legitimate political authority relies on the consent of the governed. Rousseau's framework influenced many political ideas surrounding democracy and individual rights, making his contributions foundational in modern political philosophy.

Other thinkers, like John Locke, also discussed social contract concepts, albeit with different emphases and conclusions. Locke focused on the preservation of individual rights and government as a protector of life, liberty, and property. Meanwhile, Voltaire was primarily concerned with civil liberties and religious tolerance rather than the social foundations of political authority. David Hume, known for his empiricism and skepticism, did not directly address the social contract theory in a manner similar to Rousseau. Thus, Rousseau stands out for his unique contributions to the concept, making him the key figure linked with the idea of the social contract.