Classical Theories of Society and the Social Contract Theories

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Chapter 10 Discussion Post
Plato, Confucius, and Aristotle each had unique ideas but were similar in some ways regarding the formation and coordination of any given society, rather than just accepting the social complexity of a given era. The classical theory is based on society as a whole, and Confucius's theory depicts that any given society should be based on virtue. At the same time, Plato believes that function and harmony are what make a society (Zhang). Furthermore, Aristotle believes that the natural state of man is what makes a society. Therefore, according to classical theory, the major element of a just society entails having a good life for the individual and the city. The major aspects of a just society are equality, as portrayed by Aristotle, and a virtuous condition of the soul, as depicted by Plato. Thus, according to classical theory, aids in ensuring people live in harmony with each other without unfair treatment.
Hobbes and Locke's ideas on social contract theory are similar and divergent. According to Locke, a man has the right to live and get protection. Thus, a man is entitled to impartial protection and should be treated justly. Conversely, Hobbes believes that a man should do what he is told to guarantee his safety. Therefore, according to Hobbes, not following what one is told threatens one's safety (Islam). Hence, individuals do not have the right to rebel through violation of the social contract. The similarity between their theories is that government accorded power is not from divine power but from the people. Therefore, through a social agreement, people in a society assign power to the government to protect their rights. Additionally, Rawls' original position demonstrates that justice is when there is fairness in any society. Therefore, through the veil of ignorance, individuals get to test whether a given act is or not.
Rawls and Nozick both agree on the need to let justice triumph. Thus, justice in any society is portrayed through how much the laws adhere to the model and not whether the laws yield a minimal maximized outcome. The major difference is that Rawls posits...