Chapter 6

That all people are created equal and endowed with unalienable rights, including Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness.

The idea that ethical principles should consistently protect human life in all contexts.

Egoism describes self-interest as a fact (psychological), while ethical egoism prescribes acting in one’s own self-interest as morally right.

Implicit agreement to social rules or authority by participating in society without objection.

Clear, direct agreement to follow rules, laws, or social norms.

A hypothetical condition where humans live without government or social rules, often used to justify natural rights.

Deism emphasizes that humans have natural rights given by a Creator, discoverable through reason, rather than dependent on religious authorities.

A moral philosophy (Ayn Rand) that advocates rational self-interest and rejects altruism as a moral duty.

Selfishness can be considered morally acceptable if it aligns with rational self-interest (ethical egoism).

Rights inherent to all humans, derived from human nature, not dependent on laws or governments.

A universal moral principle that obliges all people to respect the life, liberty, and property of others.

People may violate natural rights, and there is no objective authority to enforce justice, necessitating a social contract.

An agreement among individuals to form a society and obey laws for mutual protection of rights.

Tacit and explicit consent are two ways people can agree to something, especially in moral or political philosophy (like in social contract theory). Explicit Consent Means clearly and directly agreeing to something. It’s spoken or written — there’s no doubt you said “yes.” Example: Signing a contract, saying “I agree,” or voting. In political theory: When someone formally agrees to follow a government’s laws (like taking an oath of citizenship). Tacit Consent Means implied agreement — you don’t say “yes,” but your actions show acceptance. It’s indirect or unspoken. Example: Living in a country and enjoying its benefits (like protection or infrastructure) might be seen as tacitly agreeing to obey its laws. Philosopher John Locke used this idea — that by using society’s services, you tacitly consent to its government. In short: > Explicit consent: You say yes directly. Tacit consent: You show yes through your behavior.

Humans are self-interested and competitive; life in the state of nature is “nasty, solitary, brutish, and short,” necessitating a social contract to secure property and safety.