Final answer:
John Locke's social contract theory outlines that the government must protect individual rights and liberties, and in turn, the people should respect the law. If the government fails in its duties, the people retain the right to overthrow it. This concept has significantly influenced democratic thought and the principle of consent of the governed.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to the philosopher John Locke, the social contract is a mutual agreement between the government and the people it governs. This contract requires governments to protect the rights and property of individuals and to maximize personal freedoms. In return, the people should respect the rule of law and ensure the government does not exceed its bounds. Government exists with the consent of the governed, and those who enter the contract essentially give up the natural right to execute the law of nature in exchange for justice and societal stability provided by the state.
Locke stipulated that if a government fails to safeguard the rights of the people, including the rights to life, liberty, and property, the social contract is breached. Consequently, citizens are no longer obligated to obey such a government and have the authority to overthrow it. This idea influenced many democratic principles, particularly the notion of government by consent and the right to rebel against unjust authority.