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.

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.

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

This electronic version has been made available under a Creative Commons (BY-NC-ND) open access license. This exciting new text presents the first overview of Jean Jacques Rousseau's work from a political science perspective. Was Rousseau--the great theorist of the French Revolution--really a conservative? This original study argues that the he was a constitutionalist much closer to Madison, Montesquieu, and Locke than to revolutionaries. Outlining his profound opposition to Godless materialism and revolutionary change, this book finds parallels between Rousseau and Burke, as well as showing how Rousseau developed the first modern theory of nationalism. The book presents an integrated political analysis of Rousseau's educational, ethical, religious and political writings, and will be essential reading for students of politics, philosophy and the history of ideas.

Rousseau is most often read either as a theorist of individual authenticity or as a communitarian. In this book, he is neither. Instead, Rousseau is understood as a theorist of the common person. In Strong's understanding, Rousseau's use of 'common' always refers both to that which is common and to that which is ordinary, vulgar, everyday. For Strong, Rousseau resonates with Kant, Hegel, and Marx, but he is more modern like Emerson, Nietzsche, Eittegenstein, and Heidegger. Rousseau's democratic individual is an ordinary self, paradoxically multiple and not singular. In the course of exploring this contention, Strong examines Rousseau's fear of authorship (though not of authority), his understanding of the human, his attempt to overcome the scandal that relativism posed for politics, and the political importance of sexuality.

Rousseau attacks the social and political effects of the dominant forms of scientific knowledge. Contains the entire First Discourse, contemporary attacks on it, Rousseau's replies to his critics, and his summary of the debate in his preface to Narcissus. A number of these texts have never before been available in English. The First Discourse and Polemics demonstrate the continued relevance of Rousseau's thought. Whereas his critics argue for correction of the excesses and corruptions of knowledge and the sciences as sufficient, Rousseau attacks the social and political effects of the dominant forms of scientific knowledge.

Bringing together critical assessments of the broad range of Rousseau's thought, with a particular emphasis on his political theory, this systematic collection is an essential resource for both student and scholar.

Welcome to the transformative world of Jean-Jacques Rousseau's Emile, a groundbreaking treatise on education and human development that has influenced generations. This philosophical masterpiece invites readers to embark on a journey through the eyes of a young boy, Emile, as he navigates the complexities of life, learning, and the pursuit of virtue in a society fraught with challenges. As you delve into the narrative, you will accompany Emile through various stages of childhood, adolescence, and adulthood, witnessing his development into a morally grounded and autonomous individual. Rousseau’s insights into the nature of education emphasize the importance of nurturing a child's innate curiosity and allowing them to learn through experience rather than rote memorization. The central themes of Emile revolve around the concepts of natural education, individuality, and the social contract. Rousseau advocates for an educational system that respects the child's natural instincts and fosters a sense of freedom and self-discovery. His philosophy challenges traditional notions of education, urging readers to consider the balance between society's demands and the individual's rights. The tone of the book is both earnest and reflective, encouraging deep contemplation about the nature of education and the cultivation of virtue. Rousseau's eloquent prose and compelling arguments create an engaging experience that resonates with readers, prompting them to reflect on their own educational philosophies and practices. Since its publication in 1762, Emile has received widespread acclaim for its innovative ideas and profound impact on educational theory. Its enduring relevance is evident in modern discussions about child development, education reform, and the importance of fostering individuality in learning environments. This seminal work appeals to a broad audience, from educators and parents to philosophers and anyone interested in the intricacies of human development. Rousseau's exploration of education as a tool for moral and intellectual growth makes Emile an essential read for those seeking to understand the foundations of modern pedagogy. As you engage with Emile, you will find yourself inspired by Rousseau's vision of a more compassionate and individualized approach to education. His emphasis on the importance of nurturing the child's spirit and intellect resonates deeply, making this work a timeless guide for educators and parents alike. In conclusion, Emile is not merely a book on education; it is a profound exploration of humanity and the journey toward self-discovery that continues to captivate readers with its insights and wisdom. Whether you are revisiting this classic or encountering it for the first time, prepare to be enlightened by Rousseau's transformative ideas. Don’t miss your opportunity to engage with Jean-Jacques Rousseau's Emile. Discover the revolutionary ideas that have shaped educational thought and inspired countless individuals to embrace the journey of learning—grab your copy now and explore the depths of human potential!