What Are The Divine Right And Social Contract Theories Quizlet Explained

What exactly do the divine rights and social contract theories entail? These two theories provide contrasting perspectives on the origins and legitimacy of state authority. The divine right theory asserts that the authority of the state is derived from a divine source, often seen as a deity, and that rulers are either directly descended from or chosen by this divine entity. In contrast, the social contract theory posits that individuals willingly surrender some of their inherent power and rights to the state through a mutual agreement. This surrender of power is driven by the collective desire to establish a governing authority that can maintain order and protect the fundamental rights and interests of its citizens.

The Divine Right Theory, as explained on Quizlet, is a fundamental concept in political theory. It posits that a monarch, such as a king or queen, derives their authority to govern directly from a divine source, typically believed to be a higher power or God. This theory has historically played a significant role in justifying monarchical rule and asserting the absolute authority of monarchs over their subjects. In essence, it asserts that kings and queens are not subject to earthly laws or the will of the people but rather rule by divine mandate. Understanding the Divine Right Theory is essential for grasping the historical context of monarchy and the principles that underpinned the authority of rulers in various societies throughout history.

Thomas Hobbes held distinct views on the divine right theory and the social contract theory. To address the fundamental fear that exists between individuals or groups in society, Hobbes proposed the concept of a social contract. In this proposed arrangement, individuals willingly enter into a contractual agreement with a sovereign protector. Within this social contract framework, individuals relinquish all of their rights to the sovereign, who then possesses absolute authority. Importantly, it’s essential to note that Hobbes did not endorse the idea of divine right, which suggests that rulers derive their authority from a divine source. Instead, he advocated for the authority of the sovereign to be grounded in the collective consent of the governed, as established through the social contract. This distinction underscores Hobbes’ emphasis on a secular and contractual foundation for political authority.