Correct Answer: Social Contract Theory

Solution : The correct option is Social Contract Theory .

John Locke, a 17th-century philosopher, propounded the Social Contract Theory. In his work "Two Treatises of Government," Locke argued that political authority and legitimacy arise from a social contract among individuals. People agree to form a government to protect their natural rights to life, liberty, and property, and they reserve the right to overthrow a government that fails to fulfil its obligations. This theory influenced the development of democratic governance and individual rights.