This paper explores Rousseau's critique of Enlightenment ideals, his warnings against inequality and self-interest in society, and his influence as a precursor to the Romantic movement. Jean-Jacques Rousseau, a prominent philosopher of the French Enlightenment, stood in contrast to many of his contemporaries by rejecting key aspects of the Enlightenment's rationalism and belief in progress. While philosophers like Voltaire and Diderot celebrated the advancements of modern science and its potential to improve society, Rousseau argued that these very developments contributed to moral decline. In works like "A Discourse on the Moral Effects of the Arts and Sciences" and "Discourse on Inequality", Rousseau contended that true virtue and happiness were rooted in humanity's natural state, which had been corrupted by modern civilization.

Details

Title: Was Rousseau a Totalitarian or a Democrat? His Criticism of Enlightenment Ideals and the Illusion of Progress
Author: Anthony Weaver (Author)
Publication Year: 2024
Pages: 7
Catalog Number: V1506312
ISBN (eBook): 9783389074008
Language: English
Tags: Rousseau Totalitarianism

Was Rousseau a Totalitarian or a Democrat? His Criticism of Enlightenment Ideals and the Illusion of Progress

Details