What is compact theory of government?

The compact theory of government is a political theory that emphasizes the voluntary agreement or compact between the people and the government that governs them. According to this theory, people give up some of their individual rights in exchange for the protection and services provided by the government. This theory was a basis of the American Revolution and the establishment of the United States government.

The compact theory asserts that the government derived its power from the consent of the governed, and if the government exceeds its authority or violates the compact, the people have the right to alter or abolish the government. This means that the people have an inherent right to rebel against an oppressive government and institute a new one that will better serve their interests.

The compact theory was also used to support the concept of states' rights. This theory argues that the states are sovereign and have the right to nullify federal laws or secede from the union if they feel that their rights have been violated.

The compact theory was popular during the 18th and early 19th centuries, particularly in the United States. However, its popularity declined in the 20th century as the idea of a strong central government became more popular.