Foundations of State and Political Authority

Explain Hobbes's state of nature and his justification for a powerful sovereign.

Explain Locke's state of nature and his justification for limited government with protected natural rights.

Explain Rousseau's concept of the general will and its implications for collective decision-making.

Compare and contrast the social contract theories of Hobbes, Locke, and Rousseau regarding the scope of government authority.

Identify how each social contract theory lays the groundwork for different positions on government intervention.