Which philosopher wrote the 'Social Contract' and argued that men are naturally good but could be shaped by society?

• A. Jean-Jacques Rousseau
• B. Thomas Hobbes
• C. John Locke
• D. David Hume

Answer: (A)

Rousseau is the philosopher who wrote The Social Contract and argued that men are naturally good but could be shaped by society. He believes people in the natural state are free and virtuous, yet civilization, property, and social divisions can corrupt that goodness. By entering into a social contract, individuals bind themselves together to form a political community governed by the general will, aiming to preserve freedom and equality. This view links natural goodness with social influence, which is why he is the best fit.

Hobbes sees the natural condition as violent and chaotic and argues for a strong sovereign to impose order. Locke emphasizes natural rights (life, liberty, property) and government by consent to protect those rights. Hume questions the traditional idea of a contract altogether and focuses more on human nature and sympathy.