Social contracts in political philosophy notably influenced significant changes in governance, particularly regarding the notions of authority and citizenship. Philosophers like Hobbes, Locke, and Rousseau examined the relationship between individuals and the state, arguing for the need to protect natural rights and promote the common good. This discourse led to the emergence of democratic principles, impacting the development of modern governance. Social contracts emphasized individual rights and the government’s responsibility to its citizens, laying the groundwork for constitutional democracies and influencing revolutionary movements by advocating the idea that legitimate government is based on consent.