A Methodological Review of John Locke's Social Contract Theory

and their relation to the theory in question is called "fundamental methodology”. By the means of a descriptive-analytical method and a fundamental methodology approach, this paper investigates John Locke's social contract theory and aims to clarify the relationship of this theory with Locke's ontological, epistemological and anthropological principles. In terms of ontology, subjectivity and humanism, as well as secularism govern Lock's social contract thought. Combining empiricism with a kind of metaphysics and weakening of sacred intellect by placing the reason as the judge of revelation, are the two important principles of Locke's epistemology in this theory. In terms of anthropology, an optimistic view towards the human nature has influenced his thinking. Accordingly, Locke's social contract theory, which has been put forward after the modern era, has a new nature, a nature that represents a new attitude towards man and his relation to the world, an attitude in which man and his wills and desires is centered.