1. What does the term 'social contract' mean in the context of liberalism's origins?
The theory that individuals consent to surrender some freedoms to a government in exchange for protection of their rights.
Explication
The social contract, as described in the context of liberalism's origins, is the theory that individuals consent to surrender some of their freedoms to a government in exchange for the protection of their natural rights. This concept underpins the legitimacy of government and the foundation of liberal political thought.