Social contracts in political philosophy underscore the agreement between citizens and their government regarding rights and responsibilities. These contracts form the foundational basis for legitimacy and governance, suggesting that individuals consent to surrender certain freedoms in exchange for protection and order. Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, and Jean-Jacques Rousseau are key philosophers who explored these concepts, highlighting differing views on the extent of government power and individual freedoms. The social contract theory influences modern democracy by advocating for accountability, emphasizing that leaders must serve the interests of the governed to maintain legitimacy and social order.