The only way to erect such a common power, as may be able to defend them from . . . the injuries of one another, and thereby to secure them in such sort, as that by their own industry, and by the fruits of the earth, they may nourish themselves and live contentedly, is to confer all their power and strength upon one man, or upon one assembly of men, that may reduce all their wills, by plurality of voices, unto one will. – Thomas Hobbes,
The Leviathan,
1660

In this passage, Hobbes discusses the nature of the government that people create with their social contract.

According to Hobbes, this government should

be as small and limited as possible.
protect people’s happiness.
be elected by the people.
be completely powerful.