What is Rousseau's definition of social contract theory?

Rousseau's definition of social contract theory centers on the idea of collective agreement and the establishment of a government that reflects the general will of the people. According to Rousseau, individuals enter into a social contract to form a collective entity where they agree to subordinate their individual interests for the common good. This remains fundamental to his philosophy, emphasizing that legitimate political authority must derive from the consent of the governed.

In this context, the average person's rights and freedoms are not merely surrendered in exchange for security, as suggested by the first option. Instead, Rousseau argued that true freedom is found in participation in the political process and governance, aligning personal liberty with the collective spirit of the community.

The notion of absolute rule does not align with Rousseau's vision either. He rejected authoritarianism, advocating for a form of democracy where the power resides within the populace. The protection of property is also not the core of Rousseau's theory; he was more focused on individual rights and the creation of a community that values the general will over individual wealth. Thus, the correct interpretation of social contract theory, in Rousseau's terms, highlights the importance of establishing a government that arises from the conscious agreement of its citizens.