ROUSSEAU

Rousseau: human nature

Humans are good by nature, known as the “noble savage.”

Rousseau on conflict

Humans are caught between compassion and competition in the struggle for survival.

Rousseau’s social contract

A social contract between individuals can maintain the general will of society.

Rousseau on liberties

Individual liberties are guaranteed because everyone collectively writes the law.

Rousseau on sovereignty

The people are sovereign, and the government’s role is to enforce the general will.

Rousseau on government values

Freedom, equality, and justice are central to legitimate government.

Rousseau on authority

If the government fails to uphold the general will, it loses the authority to govern.