The concept of the social contract significantly influences political philosophy by positing that governments derive authority from the consent of the governed. The idea, popularized by philosophers like Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, and Jean-Jacques Rousseau, suggests that individuals relinquish certain freedoms in exchange for security and order provided by a governing body. This framework underpins modern democracy and informs debates on individual rights, state power, and the obligations of citizens. Understanding the social contract is fundamental to discussions of political legitimacy and authority.