Table of ContentsLocke and Hobbes: A ComparisonContributions to Social Contract TheoryConclusionLocke and Hobbes: A ComparisonWhen we talk about political philosophy, two names that come up often are John Locke and Thomas Hobbes. Although they may have had divergent views on certain aspects, there are also striking similarities between the two thinkers. One of the main similarities between Locke and Hobbes is their belief in the social contract theory. Both philosophers argued that individuals enter into a social contract with the government in order to protect their natural rights and ensure social order. This contract serves as the basis for the legitimacy of political authority in their respective theories. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay Locke and Hobbes also share a common understanding of human nature. Both believed that humans were self-interested and motivated by their own desires. However, their views differ on the goodness or badness inherent in human nature. Hobbes described the state of nature as a "war of all against all", where life was lonely, poor, nasty, brutal and short. In contrast, Locke believed that humans are inherently rational and capable of living peacefully in a state of nature, where they have natural rights to life, liberty, and property. Another similarity between Locke and Hobbes is the emphasis on the importance of property rights. Both philosophers believed that individuals have a natural right to acquire and possess property as a means of self-preservation and self-interest. However, their views differ on the role of government in protecting property rights. Locke held that the primary role of government was to protect the natural rights of individuals, including property rights, while Hobbes believed that the primary function of government was to maintain social order and prevent chaos. Furthermore, Locke and Hobbes recognized the need to limit governmental power. They both believed in the concept of limited government, where political authority is limited by the consent of the governed and the rule of law. This reflects their shared concern to protect individual freedoms and prevent abuse of power by those in positions of authority.Contributions to Social Contract TheoryRegarding social contract theory, John Locke and Thomas Hobbes both made significant contributions to the concept. Locke believed that individuals entered into a social contract to protect their natural rights to life, liberty, and property, as outlined in his work "Two Treatises of Government." He argued that if the government fails to protect these rights, the people have the right to revolt and establish a new government. Similarly, Hobbes, in his work “Leviathan,” posits that individuals enter into a social contract to avoid the state of nature, where life is chaotic and violent. According to Hobbes, the role of government is to maintain social order and prevent conflict, even if this means sacrificing some individual freedoms. These divergent views on social contract theory highlight the nuanced differences in their political philosophies. In terms of human nature, Locke and Hobbes had contrasting views that shaped their political theories. Hobbes believed that humans were inherently selfish and driven by their own desires, leading to a constant state of competition and conflict. This vision is..