The discussion centers on the philosophical question of why violence, particularly nonconsensual acts like assault and theft, is deemed bad by society. While the social contract theory, particularly Hobbes', is often cited as a rationale, it is considered insufficient because it does not fully address internal threats or the complexities of human interactions. Participants argue that violence can be seen as a natural and effective means of achieving goals, yet it complicates societal cohesion and ethical standards. The conversation highlights the need for a clearer definition of violence and the subjective nature of moral judgments regarding it. Ultimately, the debate raises fundamental questions about the role of violence in human society and its implications for social order.
