Rousseau - PHIL 1502

What does Rousseau argue about the legitimacy of force in governing society?

Rousseau argues that the strongest man is never strong enough to always be master unless he transforms his power into right and obedience into duty. Might does not make right.

What is the natural condition of man according to Rousseau?

Man is born free, and everywhere he is in chains.

How does Rousseau define the social contract?

The social contract is an agreement by which individuals collectively give up their individual rights to gain civil liberties and security through the community.

What is the relationship between the general will and individual will in the society according to Rousseau?

The general will reflects the collective interest of all citizens, while individual wills may diverge from it. Citizens must align their individual interests with the general will to be truly free.

What does Rousseau say about the inalienability of sovereignty?

Sovereignty cannot be alienated, as it represents the collective will and cannot be transferred or assigned.

What transformation occurs in the transition from the state of nature to the civil state?

The transition results in the substitution of instinct with justice and moral quality in actions, elevating man's capacities.

How does Rousseau describe the first model of political societies?

Rousseau describes the family as the first model of political societies where the father represents the leader and children represent the people.

What is the 'social pact' according to Rousseau?

The social pact is the fundamental agreement that binds individuals into a collective social body, ensuring mutual protection and participation in civic life.

According to Rousseau, what distinguishes legitimate laws from arbitrary decrees?

Legitimate laws arise from the general will that reflects the collective interest, whereas arbitrary decrees may serve private interests and lack a general consensus.

What does Rousseau mean by saying, 'whoever refuses to obey the general will shall be constrained to do so by the whole body'?

It implies that individuals who do not comply with the collective decisions must be compelled to conform for the sake of ensuring the common good and maintaining order.

What is Rousseau's view on inequality?

Rousseau believes that inequality is a result of social constructs and that natural man was inherently equal.

What role does education play in Rousseau's philosophy?

Education shapes individuals and can either promote or diminish their natural freedom and moral sense.

How does Rousseau differentiate between two types of social contract?

He distinguishes between the 'social contract' which seeks the common good, and 'contrac[t] de société' which may promote individual interests.

What does Rousseau suggest about the role of government?

Rousseau suggests that government should express the general will and act in the interest of all citizens.

What are the implications of Rousseau's idea of the 'general will'?

The general will aims at the common good and requires citizens to prioritize collective interests over personal desires.

How does Rousseau view private property?

Rousseau sees private property as a source of social inequality and conflict, which was not present in the state of nature.

What is the significance of the statement 'the stronger is never strong enough to be always the master'?

It emphasizes that power must be legitimatized through a social contract and cannot solely rely on force.

How does Rousseau's philosophy address freedom?

Rousseau argues that true freedom is achieved by aligning individual desires with the general will, fostering civil liberty.

What does Rousseau identify as the primary cause of human corruption?

He identifies civilization and the development of society as the primary causes leading to moral decay and inequality.

What are the key elements of Rousseau's ideal state?

The key elements include popular sovereignty, civil liberty, justice, and the collective good of the populace.

What does Rousseau say about the role of the legislator in society?

Rousseau views the legislator as a crucial figure who helps shape the laws of society, translating the general will into concrete measures that promote the common good.

How does Rousseau define the term 'civil liberty'?

Civil liberty is the freedom of individuals to act according to their own will while still being governed by laws that they have a role in creating through the general will.

What is Rousseau's perspective on the relationship between liberty and equality?

Rousseau posits that true liberty cannot exist without equality; social inequalities create barriers to freedom and undermine the common good.

What does Rousseau identify as the dangers of majority rule?

Rousseau warns that majority rule can lead to the suppression of minority opinions and the potential for the general will to be misinterpreted or manipulated.

How does Rousseau view the concept of justice in the civil state?

In the civil state, justice is developed from collective agreements that reflect the general will, rather than individual interests.

What role does the concept of 'amour-propre' play in Rousseau's philosophy?

'Amour-propre' is a form of self-love dependent on the opinions of others, which Rousseau believes can lead to social inequality and competition.

How does Rousseau suggest that individuals should be educated to fulfill their civic duties?

Rousseau advocates for education that fosters moral values, civic responsibility, and the understanding of the general will among individuals.

What critique does Rousseau offer about modern commerce and its impact on society?

He critiques modern commerce for fostering inequality and dependence, thus corrupting the social fabric and the natural bonds of community.

What implications does Rousseau's definition of 'freedom' have for political institutions?

Rousseau's definition of freedom necessitates that political institutions must be structured to reflect the general will and promote collective interests to be legitimate.