Practice Test

Question 5 • United States History

How do force theory and social contract theory differ?

Answer

Force theory is based on a society’s desire to remain free, while social contract theory is based on a government’s power being divided among multiple levels.

Force theory is based on strict rules being placed on people, while social contract theory is an agreement between a ruler and those being ruled.

Force theory is based on the idea that a small group of elite members control ruling power, while social contract theory is based on the idea of one supreme leader.

Force theory is based on the principles of authoritarianism, while social contract theory is an agreement where ruling power stays within a family.

Explanation

Force theory says a government is created when a powerful person or group imposes its authority on others. Social contract theory says government arises from an agreement between the people and their ruler, in which people accept the ruler’s authority in exchange for protection or order. Therefore, choice B best describes the difference.

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