Jean Jacques Rousseau

Counter-Enlightenment Stance

Rousseau rejected the Enlightenment's emphasis on reason, art, and science, longing for a return to ignorance, innocence, and poverty.

Preference for Sparta

Rousseau preferred Sparta for its rejection of arts and sciences over Athens, which celebrated them.

Criticism of Enlightenment Knowledge

Rousseau argued that Enlightenment knowledge was corrupt and led to evil, moving society away from a purer, more virtuous natural state.

Noble Savage Concept

Rousseau introduced the idea of the Noble Savage, believing people in a natural state were morally superior to those corrupted by civilization.

Opposition to Hobbes

Rousseau opposed Hobbes's view of humans as naturally violent, believing it was society that corrupted human nature.

Critique of Civilization

Rousseau believed modern society degraded people, creating artificial inequalities and alienating them from their true nature.

Influence on the French Revolution

Rousseau's vision of a society where humans live naturally influenced the makers of the French Revolution.

Educational Philosophy (Emile)

In "Emile," Rousseau advocated for education in nature, allowing children to express their talents without strict guidance but with hidden control.

Nondirectional Education

Rousseau promoted nondirectional education, where children are subtly guided while feeling free to explore their interests.

Influence on Romanticism

Rousseau's ideas foreshadowed romanticism, which emphasized emotion, nature, and individual experience.

Impact on Modern Education

Rousseau inspired modern educational reformers, advocating for the education of the "whole child" rather than structured teaching.

Human Perfectibility

Rousseau believed in human perfectibility through proper education, influencing thinkers like B.F. Skinner, who advocated for a controlled society promoting happiness.