Question

Read the quote by Thomas Hobbes.

Law was brought into the world for nothing else but to limit the natural liberty of particular men in such manner as they might not hurt but assist one another and join together against a common enemy.

According to Hobbes, what is the primary purpose of the social contract?

to protect rights
to remove rights
to reduce liberty
to expand liberty

Answer 1

to protect rights

Hobbes argues people give up some natural liberty through the social contract so they won’t harm one another and can secure safety and order — ultimately protecting their lives and security.