Social Contract Theory

Term Paper # 102742

Ethics
Sociology > Theory

This paper looks at the advantages and disadvantages of the social contract theory.

1,411 words () | 2 sources | APA | 2008 United States

Paper Summary:

The paper looks at what the social contract theory holds morality to be as well as the apparent advantages and disadvantages of the theory as a guide for regulating the moral actions of everyday citizens. The paper looks at how the theory fails insofar as it insufficiently protects the disabled from mistreatment at the hands of others. The paper focuses on the sad case of Baby Theresa, a disabled child whose demise offers a poignant rebuttal of the social contract view that some creatures should be beyond moral consideration. The paper warns that once a society decides that utilitarian arguments should hold sway when it comes to who should live and die, it opens up the potential for large numbers of its citizens to be exploited brutally by others.

From the Paper:

"In the view of Hobbes, morality is the practical solution to the question of how best human beings can interact with one another in a social context. Put another way, morality is needed (even if people do not see profound religious or philosophical reasons for its existence) because all of us need a stable and secure society if we are to enjoy all the benefits that should accrue to us as social beings (Rachel, 2003b). Seen in this light, one may present the case that a society committed to the social contract will work industriously to preserve the rights of all citizens - including the mentally-disabled. After all, if the rights of one group are undermined, then the rights of all other groups can easily be undermined, as well."

Sample of Sources Used:

Rachel, James. (2003a). Chapter one: What is morality? In The Elements of Moral Philosophy (pp.1-7). United States (?): McGraw-Hill.
Rachel, James. (2003b). Chapter ten: The idea of a social contract. In The Elements of Moral Philosophy (pp.141-159). United States (?): McGraw-Hill.