The social contract theory in modern thought bases political legitimacy on human will and rationality, as if humans initially existed in a state without obligation or law—a "state of nature." Adopting a paradigmatic approach, this article critiques this assumption in light of the political logic of the Quran, demonstrating that the Quran negates any pre-political state devoid of obligation. Instead, it situates humans from the very beginning within the framework of Fiṭrah (innate disposition), divine covenant (Mīthāq), and responsibility. Thus, in the Quranic logic, politics does not generate obligation but serves as the arena for the realization and regulation of pre-existing, non-contractual obligations. The main research question concerns the implications of this paradigmatic conflict for understanding political legitimacy, freedom, and resistance. The research employs a qualitative-analytical method, combining a conceptual-normative analysis of social contract theories with a theory-driven thematic analysis of Quranic verses and Shi'a exegeses. The findings indicate that within the framework of the Quranic worldview, political power has a fiduciary nature and is conditional upon justice. Legitimacy is derived not from normative acceptance or instrumental rationality, but from conformity with justice and accountability. Accordingly, freedom acquires a devotional meaning, and resistance against the deviation of power is elevated from a contractual right to a normative obligation.
Yarahmadi, D. (2025). A Critique of Social Contract Theory in the Political Logic of the Quran with a Focus on the Basis of Political Obligation and Legitimacy. Islamic social studies, 31(132), 149-180. doi: 10.30513/iss.2026.8027.1427
MLA
Yarahmadi, D. . "A Critique of Social Contract Theory in the Political Logic of the Quran with a Focus on the Basis of Political Obligation and Legitimacy", Islamic social studies, 31, 132, 2025, 149-180. doi: 10.30513/iss.2026.8027.1427
HARVARD
Yarahmadi, D. (2025). 'A Critique of Social Contract Theory in the Political Logic of the Quran with a Focus on the Basis of Political Obligation and Legitimacy', Islamic social studies, 31(132), pp. 149-180. doi: 10.30513/iss.2026.8027.1427
CHICAGO
D. Yarahmadi, "A Critique of Social Contract Theory in the Political Logic of the Quran with a Focus on the Basis of Political Obligation and Legitimacy," Islamic social studies, 31 132 (2025): 149-180, doi: 10.30513/iss.2026.8027.1427
VANCOUVER
Yarahmadi, D. A Critique of Social Contract Theory in the Political Logic of the Quran with a Focus on the Basis of Political Obligation and Legitimacy. Islamic social studies, 2025; 31(132): 149-180. doi: 10.30513/iss.2026.8027.1427
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