Explain John Locke on social contract and civil society.

John Locke, a key figure in Enlightenment political thought, elaborated on the concept of the social contract and civil society in his influential work "Two Treatises of Government."

1. Social Contract:
   Locke's theory of the social contract posits that individuals voluntarily enter into a compact or agreement with one another to form a civil society and establish a legitimate government. Unlike Hobbes, Locke believed that the state of nature was characterized by relative peace and cooperation, rather than constant conflict. However, to secure their natural rights of life, liberty, and property more effectively, individuals consent to the creation of a government through a social contract. This government is formed to protect these rights and promote the common good, deriving its authority from the consent of the governed.

2. Civil Society:
   Locke's conception of civil society is based on the idea of limited government and the rule of law. In civil society, individuals live under a government that operates within the bounds of law and respects their natural rights. Locke emphasizes the importance of a separation of powers and checks and balances to prevent the abuse of authority. He also advocates for the protection of individual liberties, including freedom of conscience, speech, and association, within the framework of civil society.

Locke's theory of the social contract and civil society laid the groundwork for modern liberal democracy, emphasizing the importance of consent, limited government, and individual rights in political governance. His ideas profoundly influenced the development of democratic principles and constitutionalism, shaping the political institutions and values of liberal societies around the world.