The Social Contract

The discussions this week focused on the role of government in society, as well as the entitlements of individuals. I think that an important aspect of this question is the structure of humanity. By this I mean, what are some core essential features that relate to the question at hand? The first one I would like to consider is the social aspect of humans. Is being social an important aspect to what it means to be human? It does seem to be. We often place great importance in family, as well as being part of a society that is why we have such large nations. We do unite often and organize ourselves together. If this is the case, we do want to enter social contracts with each other without having to sacrifice other aspects of ourselves, and our self interest. I think that most of us agree that there can be a point where the social contracts that are set-up can infringe too much on the individuals rights. So the question is where is the balance point, where we can receive the most benefit from society, without losing too much of individual liberties. We want to protect ourself interest and to do so we must protect the interest of others. I think that all three philosophers we have looked at agree to this concept, but the balance area is very different between all them. Nozick, I believe, says the only protection that government/society should provide is his idea of One Time Redistribution. Marx says that the people need near protection is a much broader sense. He believes that everyone should get what they need, which society will insure, but self-interest past is not a necessary part of society. Rawls takes a position in between these two. For him government acts as a protection agency like it does for Nozick, but it also acts as provider as it does for Marx. Society tries to help the least advantage in society, but it also does not eliminate competition, or rewards for working hard, intellect, talents, etc.

Out of these three views, they all have their benefits and their detriments. I think that there is no clear choice, nor is there a correct choice for all cases. I think that each of these ideas work for different societies. I think that there are certain countries where Nozicks' idea would not work, and others where Marx's would not work. I think the state of the nation and the thoughts of the people should determine what the role of government is. I guess the best way to classify my thoughts is the genre of the Social Contract.