Rousseau – The Social Contract, Book I Summary

These flashcards cover key concepts from Rousseau's 'The Social Contract, Book I', focusing on political authority, social contracts, and the transition from natural to civil freedom.

Political Authority

The legitimacy and power held by a governing body that is justified by a social agreement rather than tradition or force.

Social Contract

An implicit agreement among individuals to create a society and government, wherein each person agrees to cooperate for social benefits.

Sovereign

The collective body of citizens in a state, which holds authority derived from their shared agreement and acts as the political unit.

Natural Freedom

The concept of being free to act according to one's own will, without the constraints imposed by society.

Civil Freedom

The kind of freedom that includes legal protections and the ability to participate in governance, gained by entering a societal contract.

General Will

The collective interest or will of the people as a whole, which should guide political decisions.

Legitimacy

The rightfulness of political authority, which must come from the consent of the governed rather than mere power or traditional rule.

Moral Development

The process by which individuals in society develop a sense of justice and ethical conduct, transforming from instinct-driven beings.

Consent

Agreement among individuals to form a community or government, which is necessary for the legitimacy of authority.

Property Rights

Rights that are recognized and protected by society, asserting that ownership depends on social recognition rather than natural entitlement.