Overview
This lecture discusses Rousseau's version of the social contract theory, comparing it to Aristotle's natural view of society, and explores Rousseau's concepts of freedom, democracy, and the general will.
Social Contract Theory
- Social contract theory states that society is formed by an agreement among individuals to live together.
- Modern philosophers view society as a human-made convention, unlike Aristotle's belief that society is natural and spontaneous.
- The state of nature refers to a hypothetical condition before organized society existed.
- The social contract involves individuals agreeing to certain rules for collective benefit.
Rousseau's Perspective on Human Nature and Society
- Rousseau believes humans in their natural state are good, free, and happy.
- According to Rousseau, current society corrupts individuals and restricts natural freedom.
- His political project seeks a contract that preserves natural goodness and freedom within society.
Structure of a Just Social Contract
- Rousseau argues freedom should not be given to a single sovereign but to the collective people.
- If freedom is given to an individual ruler, it leads to tyranny.
- The sovereign, for Rousseau, should be the people as a whole, not one person.
Rousseau’s Ideal Political System
- Rousseau advocates for direct democracy, where everyone participates in decision-making.
- The people are sovereign and must pursue the general will, not individual interests.
- Legitimacy comes when decisions reflect the common good via the general will.
The General Will vs. The Will of All
- General will refers to the collective desire for the common good, not the sum of individual interests.
- When individuals act for private interests, the result is not the general will.
- The general will is legitimate, indivisible, and inalienable; it cannot be divided or transferred.
Implications for Government and Representation
- Rousseau opposes dividing political power into separate branches as the general will is indivisible.
- Representatives can execute the general will, but do not hold the sovereign power themselves.
- If necessary, a monarch may act as a representative, but only to carry out the people's will and can be replaced if not.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Social Contract — an agreement among people to form a society.
- State of Nature — the condition of humans before organized society.
- Sovereign — the authority holding ultimate power; for Rousseau, the people collectively.
- Direct Democracy — a political system where all citizens participate directly in decision-making.
- General Will — the collective desire for the common good, distinct from the sum of individual wills.
- Indivisible — cannot be divided or separated.
- Inalienable — cannot be transferred to another.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Compare Rousseau's concepts with Aristotle’s and other philosophers.
- Reflect on the meaning and application of the general will in modern society.