Rousseau - Second Discourse on Inequality

What are the two types of inequality in humans identified by Rousseau?

Physical Inequality and Moral/Political Inequality.

What is Physical Inequality?

Differences in strength, age, health, and mind/soul.

What is Moral/Political Inequality?

Disparity in the privileges that some people enjoy over others, often seen in the rich being treated better than the poor.

How does Moral/Political Inequality arise according to Rousseau?

It arises from agreements and conventions that humans have created, such as property rights and social hierarchies.

What does Rousseau aim to identify regarding the law?

He aims to identify how the law replaced violence, how nature was shaped by law, and how the strong served the weak.

How does Rousseau characterize humans in their natural state?

He describes them as less strong and agile than other animals but well equipped for survival.

What advantage do humans have over animals according to Rousseau?

The ability to imitate various animal instincts gives humans an advantage.

What harmful agents to humans are identified by Rousseau?

Infancy, old age, and illnesses.

Why does Rousseau claim savage men suffer fewer diseases?

He claims that human diseases are traced to civil societies, implying that savage men do not suffer from the same ailments.

What are some 'ills' of civil society that Rousseau discusses?

Inequality in resources, oppression, diseases, etc.

What does Rousseau argue about the state of nature compared to civil society?

He considers the state of nature as free of 'ills' except for wounds and old age.

What happens to wild animals when they are domesticated according to Rousseau?

They weaken and lose physical vigor and knowledge as they become reliant on humans.

How does Rousseau describe the physical decline of men in society?

Men physically and mentally decline and grow fearful due to the luxuries of society.

What does Rousseau say about the luxuries that savage men lack?

He argues that they aren't bad and do not inhibit their survival.

What is the primary goal of savage men?

Self-preservation.

What happens to physical abilities when humans or animals adapt to technology and social norms?

They lose their natural physical abilities that they possessed in a State of Nature.