back to ideas for this text


Single Idea 22809

[from 'Atomism' by Charles Taylor, in 24. Political Theory / B. Nature of a State / 2. State Legitimacy / c. Social contract ]

Full Idea

The social contract theory …has a vision of society as in some sense constituted by individuals for the fulfilment of ends which are primarily individual.

Gist of Idea

The social contract sees society as constituted by and for individuals

Source

Charles Taylor (Atomism [1979], p.29)

Book Reference

'Communitarianism and Individualism', ed/tr. Avineri,S. /de-Shalit,A. [OUP 1992], p.29


A Reaction

It seems to be initiated by individuals who are only motivated by what is in it for them. This presumes self-sufficient adults, rather than children, or parents with children, or dependent people. The epitome of liberalism, perhaps.