This “fresh new rendition of Rousseau’s major political writings is a boon for scholars and students alike”—with a critical introduction by the translator (Richard Boyd, Georgetown University). Individualist and communitarian. Anarchist and totalitarian. Progressive and reactionary. Since the eighteenth century, Jean-Jacques Rousseau has been called all of these things. Few philosophers have been the subject of such intense debate, yet almost everyone agrees that Rousseau is among the most important political thinkers in history. Renowned Rousseau scholar John T. Scott highlights his enduring influence with this superb new edition of his major political writings. This volume includes authoritative and lucid new translations of the Discourse on the Sciences and Arts, the Discourse on the Origin and Foundations of Inequality Among Men, and On the Social Contract. The two Discourses show Rousseau developing his well-known conception of the natural goodness of man and the problems posed by life in society. With the Social Contract, Rousseau became the first major thinker to argue that democracy is the only legitimate form of political organization. Scott’s extensive introduction enhances our understanding of these foundational writings, providing background information, social and historical context, and guidance for interpreting the works. Throughout, translation and editorial notes clarify ideas and terms that might not be immediately familiar to most readers.

Reconstructs the life of the French literary genius whose writing changed opinions and fueled fierce debate on both sides of the Atlantic during the period of the American and French revolutions.

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In 'The Greatest Works of Jean-Jacques Rousseau', readers are presented with a collection of the notable works by the 18th-century philosopher and writer. Rousseau's literary style is characterized by his eloquent prose and profound philosophical insights on topics such as society, education, and the nature of man. His works, including 'Confessions' and 'Emile', are considered essential reading for those interested in the Enlightenment period and the development of political thought. The book provides a comprehensive overview of Rousseau's ideas and their influence on Western philosophy and political theory. Jean-Jacques Rousseau, a prominent figure in the Age of Enlightenment, was known for his progressive views on education and the social contract. His personal experiences and observations of society inspired him to write extensively on topics related to human nature and the state of nature. Rousseau's writings continue to be highly regarded for their originality and impact on subsequent thinkers. I highly recommend 'The Greatest Works of Jean-Jacques Rousseau' to readers who are interested in exploring the philosophical foundations of modern political theory and the writings of one of the most influential thinkers of the Enlightenment. This collection provides valuable insights into Rousseau's intellectual legacy and enduring relevance.

Highlights the life and accomplishments of the Swiss philospher and musician who contributed to the Enlightenment.

Rousseau considered this tale of a young boy and his tutor the most important of his writings, and its exploration of the retention of human goodness and avoidance of social corruption remains highly influential.

List of PlatesMapIntroduction1. Geneva2. Bossey3. Annecy4. Turin5. A Sentimental Education6. Chambery7. Les Charmettes8. Lyons9. Paris10. Venice11. 'Les Muses Galantes'12. The Encyclopaedist13. The Moralist14. The Philosopher of Music and Language15. On the Origins of Inequality16. The Reformer Reformed17. The Return to GenevaList of the Principal Abbreviations Used on the NotesNotesIndex Copyright © Libri GmbH. All rights reserved.

Joel Schwartz presents the first systematic treatment of Rousseau's understanding of the political importance of women, sexuality, and the family. Using both Rousseau's lesser-known literary works and such major writings as Emile, Julie, and The Second Discourse, he offers an original and provocative presentation of Rousseau's argument. To read Rousseau, Schwartz believes, is to enter into a profound discourse about the meaning of sexual equality and the opportunities, pitfalls, costs, and benefits that sexual relationships bestow and impose on us all. His own thoughtful reading of Rousseau opens up fresh perspectives on political philosophy and the history of sexual, masculine, and feminine psychology.

This work is a frank treatment of Rousseau's sexual and intellectual development. It offers a model for the reflective life: the solitary, uncompromising individual; the enemy of servitude and habit; and the selfish egoist who dedicates himself to a particular ideal.