PHIL 1301 Rousseau Part Deux-

Jean-Jacques Rousseau was a pivotal figure in the development of Romanticism, which emphasizes a strong connection to nature in its uncorrupted form.
The topic covers how philosophy has evolved and how Romanticism today continues to highlight inequities in power.
Among the crucial themes of Romanticism are the individual’s struggle against modernism and its impacts.
The central texts we will focus on are Rousseau's "Discourse on the Arts and Sciences" and "Discourse on the Origins of Inequality," the latter being the primary focus.

Rousseau posits that the inception of civil society began with the act of enclosing land. The first individual who claimed ownership of land and was believed by others to have that right initiated a fundamental shift in human society.
This claim to ownership formed a basis for societal hierarchies and disparity, indicating a critical turn toward inequality.
Rousseau's thoughts imply that had this initial claim against communal ownership been negated—through the pulling up of stakes or restoration of shared access—the ensuing sufferings caused by inequality might have been avoided.

Rousseau highlights two main types of inequality—Social or Political Inequality, which he labels as artificial or man-made.
The concept of the Noble Savage arises here, representing an idealized version of humanity that existed before the corruption of society.
Rousseau critiques philosophers like Hobbes, emphasizing how private property and inheritance contribute to this inequality.

Rousseau describes early human interactions where gathering, song, and dance gave birth to the notion of public esteem. Individuals began valuing themselves based on external validation rather than intrinsic worth.
This competition for recognition led to vanity, envy, and contempt, fundamentally altering social dynamics and paving the way for societal vices.
He suggests that these preferences mark the inception of inequality and its accompanying moral decay.

Public Esteem points to worth derived from external perceptions—how others view us.
Self-Esteem, by contrast, is linked to internal recognition and validation—how we value ourselves.
A healthy sense of self requires balance between these two forms of worth.

When public esteem overshadows self-esteem, individuals experience what Rousseau terms Ultimate Alienation.
The modern world exacerbates this alienation through various societal pressures—manifesting in uniformity, targeting those lacking societal-required skills, and leading to feelings of dehumanization and exploitation.

Rousseau challenges the perceived value of societal skills, questioning whether they are truly intrinsic or merely con-artist tricks.
In industries like music and acting, individuals often “con” themselves into adopting false identities for public approval.

Suggests a reformed educational approach that embraces Romantic ideals, focusing on naturalizing education rather than promoting skills that lack intrinsic value.
Emphasizes the importance of cultivating skills that enhance personal sufficiency, offering a more holistic framework for learning.
Advocates for comprehensive sex education as part of fostering self-sufficiency.

The discussion transitions to modern thinkers—Rousseau, Descartes, and Hobbes. Key texts are drawn from Descartes' Meditations and Hobbes' Leviathan, alongside Rousseau’s Discourse on Inequality.

For questions or further discussion, reach out via email: feealman@cougarnet.uh.edu.

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