Understanding Locke's Social Contract Theory

John Locke's philosophy explains the origin and legitimacy of government through a social contract. Individuals agree to leave the state of nature, where they possess natural rights (life, liberty, property) but lack impartial enforcement, to form a society and establish a government. This government's primary role is to protect these natural rights.

Analyzing the Options Regarding Locke's Contract

We must identify the statement that is not true according to Locke:

• Option 1: Contract, once made, is irrevocable
  Locke viewed the establishment of society via contract as a stable, lasting arrangement. While a government could be dissolved for tyranny, the society itself was intended to be permanent. This statement is consistent with Locke.
• Option 2: Contract to which each generation must not consent
  This statement directly contradicts Locke's core principle of consent. Locke argued that legitimate government arises from the consent of the governed. While he acknowledged tacit consent (implicit agreement through benefiting from the society) for subsequent generations, the idea that they are forbidden ("must not") from consenting is incompatible with his theory. Consent, whether explicit or tacit, is essential.
• Option 3: Contract in which men give up some of the rights they possessed in the state of nature
  This is accurate. In the state of nature, individuals have the right to enforce the law of nature themselves. Through the social contract, they transfer this right (and others necessary for governance) to the government, receiving protection of their fundamental rights in return.
• Option 4: Contract does not put an end to the Law of Nature
  This is accurate. Locke maintained that the Law of Nature, derived from reason, continues to apply even after the social contract is formed. It serves as a fundamental moral guideline and limits the government's power.

Identifying the False Statement

The statement that is not true in the context of Locke's social contract theory is Option 2. The foundation of Locke's political philosophy rests upon the necessity of consent, not its prohibition, for each generation's inclusion within the social and political order.