Final answer:
The Declaration of Independence suggests a social contract between a government and its people. A legitimate government is based on the consent of the governed and the protection of natural rights. The Declaration reflects Locke's social contract theory by emphasizing consent and the right to alter or abolish a government.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Declaration of Independence suggests that the relationship between a government and the people it governs is based on a social contract. According to John Locke's social contract theory, a legitimate government is based on the consent of the governed. The Declaration claims that all legitimate government is based on the protection of the natural rights of the people, which include life, liberty, and property. However, if the government fails to secure these rights, it justifies the ending of that relationship.
The Declaration reflects Locke's social contract theory by emphasizing the idea that government derives its power from the consent of the governed. It also asserts that the people have the right to alter or abolish a government that violates their rights. This idea is in line with Locke's belief that if a government fails to protect the rights and interests of the people, they have the right to establish a new government.