This paper discusses Rousseau and the social contract. Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, and Jean-Jacques Rousseau developed theories on human nature and how men govern themselves. With the passing of time, political views on the philosophy of government gradually changed. Despite their differences, Hobbes, Locke, and Rousseau, all became three of the most influential political theorists in the world. Their ideas and philosophies spread all over the world influencing the creation of many new governments. These philosophers all recognize that people develop a social contract within their society, but have differing views on what exactly the social contract is and how it is established. Hobbes, Locke, and Rousseau each developed differing versions of the social contract, but all agreed that certain freedoms had been surrendered for society's protection and that the government has definite responsibilities to its citizens.
