Jean-Jacques Rousseau Quotes - 3 quotes

Jean-Jacques Rousseau (1712-1778) was a Swiss philosopher, writer, and composer whose ideas greatly influenced the Enlightenment in France and across Europe. Rousseau's notable works include "The Social Contract" and "Émile, or On Education". In "The Social Contract", Rousseau introduced the concept of the general will and argued that legitimate political authority relies on a social contract agreed upon by all citizens. His ideas on education, presented in "Émile", emphasized the importance of individual development and child-centered learning. Rousseau's thoughts on the natural goodness of humanity and the corrupting influence of society were revolutionary and continue to be influential. Rousseau was born on June 28, 1712, in Geneva, Switzerland. He passed away on July 2, 1778, in Ermenonville, France. His legacy endures in modern political and social thought.