Social Contract Theory

Social Contract Theory, also known as Principles of Political Rights, is Rousseau's most influential representative work. It advocates "e;people are born free"e; and proposes "e;social order is the foundation of all other rights"e;. As a work of political philosophy, its idea of "e;sovereignty belongs to the people"e; has had a profound impact on later generations. Liang Qichao once said: "e;Social Contract Theory is the driving force of the French Revolution; The French Revolution was the driving force of the world in the 19th century."e; This book is translated according to the 1964 edition of French Jialima Publishing House. When the editor touches on a certain argument of Rousseau, he often lists the relevant author's exposition that inspired and influenced Rousseau at the end of the article in the form of annotations. It makes this edition have distinct inter-textuality and great reference value.