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@article{183575,
        author = {Dr. Nataraju.G},
        title = {Reconsidering the Social Contract: A Capabilities Approach to Justice and Political Obligation},
        journal = {International Journal of Innovative Research in Technology},
        year = {2025},
        volume = {12},
        number = {3},
        pages = {1895-1900},
        issn = {2349-6002},
        url = {https://ijirt.org/article?manuscript=183575},
        abstract = {The concept of the social contract has been a foundational idea in political theory since the seventeenth century. Philosophers like Thomas Hobbes in Leviathan and John Rawls in A Theory of Justice have used the social contract to justify political authority, explain the origins of the state, and establish moral values for a just society. At its core, the social contract seeks to understand how individuals consent to be governed and what moral obligations they have to the state. However, traditional social contract theories have faced significant criticism for their inability to fully address issues of inequality, vulnerability, and the needs of marginalized groups. One prominent critique is that these theories often assume an idealized view of human nature and social relations, neglecting the lived experiences of those most in need of protection and support. For instance, Hobbes' emphasis on security and order may overlook the inequalities that exist within the social order, while Rawls' theory of justice does not fully account for the diverse needs and capabilities of individuals. In light of these limitations, the capabilities approach, developed by Martha Nussbaum, offers a more inclusive framework for justice. This approach focuses on the capabilities that individuals have to achieve a good life, emphasizing the importance of human dignity and freedom to achieve personal and social well-being. By integrating the capabilities approach with social contract theory, we can provide a more nuanced understanding of political obligation that recognizes the diverse needs of individuals and communities. This intersection allows for a more robust conception of justice that addresses social justice concerns, advocates for greater equality, and prioritizes the well-being of vulnerable populations, offering a more comprehensive foundation for modern political systems.},
        keywords = {Social contract, Hobbes, Rawls, Inequality, Vulnerability, Marginalized groups, Capabilities approach, Political obligation, Human dignity, Social justice.},
        month = {August},
        }