What does the social contract theory emphasize?

The social contract theory emphasizes the idea that a government's legitimacy comes from the consent of the governed, and it is fundamentally concerned with the protection of individual rights. According to this theory, individuals enter into a social contract, agreeing to form a government that will safeguard their rights and provide order in exchange for some of their freedoms. This framework suggests that the authority of the government is derived from the consent of the people it governs, and it operates under the understanding that the primary role of the state is to protect its citizens' rights. This foundational concept has influenced political philosophy for centuries, advocating for a government that respects the rights and will of the people it serves.

Other options address specific topics like mandatory service, healthcare, or taxation issues, but none focus on the underlying principle of consent and rights that defines social contract theory.