Social contracts also open the door to tyranny
Re: “A social contract we’re forced to sign,” Editorial, July 25.
The notion that a freedom-loving “social contact” has been distorted by the Thai junta is indeed problematical. Your editorial praises Jean Jacques Rousseau, apparently oblivious to the fact that even individuals who disagreed with his concept would be forced to abide or be punished. You also champion Thomas Hobbes, in whose ideal state a ruler must be ceded absolute power to prevent the collapse of society. It is true that John Locke had an influence on the US constitution, although whether that document can withstand the insidious attacks by the current president remains to be seen.
There is no agreed definition of a social contract in reality, but the will of the majority can be a dangerous champion. Kim Jong-un would claim the North Korean people entered into a social contract with him, while American slave owners in the past could point to a signed document of agreement. Is gang rape acceptable simply because all but the victim said so? Best to leave theories of the social contract where they belong – in university libraries.
Barry Kenyon
Pattaya
