This collection investigates the foundational question of political legitimacy and the origins of the social contract between the state and the individual. The volume presents seminal works from three distinct Enlightenment thinkers, curated with an introduction by Sir Ernest Barker to contextualize their divergent views on governance, consent, and the nature of civil society. By juxtaposing Locke’s defense of natural rights, Hume’s skeptical critique of contract theory, and Rousseau’s vision of the general will, the text provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the evolution of modern political thought.

This collection is widely regarded as a foundational resource for students of political philosophy and history. Scholars frequently note that the inclusion of Barker’s introduction provides necessary clarity for navigating the dense, foundational arguments presented by these three influential thinkers.