Political expediency and the re-establishment of the modern state (a study in social contract theory)

Abstract

Since its inception, political philosophy has sought to study and critique political reality, theorizing about the ideal of peaceful coexistence. Furthermore, it encompasses philosophers' conceptions of the principles upon which political activity should be based in service to the people, making it a key pillar of political thought that has undertaken the task of finding solutions to most political crises. Consequently, political philosophy has inevitably contributed utilitarianly throughout history.

As the social contract is one of the visions produced by modern political philosophy, it represents a significant turning point in the history of political thought in general and political philosophy in particular. Therefore, we will attempt to analyze the concept of political utility within social contract theory, trying to answer a number of questions: What is the basis upon which the legitimacy of political power rests in the social contract? Is authority obeyed because it is just or because it is beneficial? Is the modern state founded on a moral obligation or a contract governed by necessity and utility?