Who is known for his work on the social contract in "The Social Contract"?

Jean-Jacques Rousseau is renowned for his formulation of the social contract theory in his influential work "The Social Contract," published in 1762. In this foundational text, Rousseau explores the concept of legitimate political authority and the relationship between individuals and the state. He posits that individuals unite to form a collective "general will," which transcends personal interests for the common good. This idea emphasizes the importance of consent and participation in governance, proposing that political legitimacy derives from the people's agreement to form a society based on mutual benefit and shared values.

Rousseau’s ideas significantly shaped political thought by advocating for democracy and the rights of individuals within a community. His views represent a departure from previous theories that focused more on absolute authority, such as those of Hobbes, who emphasized a powerful sovereign, or Locke, who concentrated on property rights and government as a protector of those rights. Rousseau’s unique perspective on the social contract laid the groundwork for modern democratic ideals and influenced subsequent political philosophies and revolutions.