Theoretical Frameworks Explaining the Emergence of the State Social Contract Theories as a Paradigm

Résumé

The theories of social contract explain the emergence of the state as a social and political organization, constituting a significant development in the field of political sociology. They attributed, for the first time, the origins of political power to popular will, after it had been governed, for long centuries, by theocratic theories, which made divine will the only source of authority. Hobbes, Locke, and Rousseau all agreed that the formation of the state can be traced back to a social contract. However, they differed in describing the natural state of individuals before entering into this contract, and in identifying the parties involved, which led automatiqaly to the differences in the conclusions each of them reached.

We relied in this focused study on the most important theories explaining the emergence of political authority, using the descriptive-analytical method. Through this, we have concluded that the social contract theories have that the theories of the social contract, for the first time, adopted a logical and scientific approach in an attempt to break free from the dominant ecclesiastical legacy. Consequently, these theories, particularly John Locke's theory, succeeded in establishing an acceptable foundation for political legitimacy that does not contradict the Islamic perspective on organizing political society. This has motivated us to embark on writing a study to explain the Islamic theory of state formation and establishment in light of the Prophet’s experience in Medina.

Furthermore, we found that the state emerged within the framework of an integrated societal project aimed at achieving three primary objectives : maintaining public peace, improving living conditions, and ensuring justice and equality among people.