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Social Contract Theory

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Social Contract Theory on the Criminal Justice System and Private Security

Philosophy Foundations of Ethics in Justice and Security

Social Contract Theory on the Criminal Justice System and Private Security Prior to the social contract theory, there was no government body providing laws, order, and protection. Humans were left to protect their own lives and property. When problems ensued between individuals, evolution occurred, and the strongest usually survived. From this, the social contract theory emerged, which required a group of individuals to give up their individual rights to govern themselves, and comply to a selected government authority. This government represents the group’s interests and forms and civil society that provide protection of life and property (Souryal, 2007). This paper will summarize the different social contract theories, focus on John Locke’s social contract theory principles, and discuss how these principles influenced the Bill of Rights. Additionally, this paper will search how these principles are present in the criminal justice system and private security settings. Lastly, the paper will describe freedom of personal rights and ethical standards and obligations. Social Contract Theories There are many different versions of the social contract theory. Thomas Hobbes' social contract theory defines state of nature as a condition of self-absorbed human beings, who are overwhelmed with losing one's life, and unreasonable. This forces individuals to make a social contract with a like-minded group and governed by an absolute authority (Sorryal, 2007). John Locke continued to build on Hobbes' social contract theory but focused more on liberalism; equal rights for all individuals (Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy). Unlike Hobbes, Locke did not

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