Product Description

"Man was born free, but everywhere he is in chains." Thus begins Rousseau's influential 1762 work, in which he argues that all government is fundamentally flawed and that modern society is based on a system of inequality. The philosopher posits that a good government can justify its need for individual compromises and that promoting social settings in which people transcend their immediate appetites and desires leads to the development of self-governing, self-disciplined beings. A milestone of political science, these essays are essential reading for students of history, philosophy, and other social sciences. G. D. H. Cole translation.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #130567 in Books
• Published on: 2003-02-13
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 112 pages

Language Notes
Text: English (translation)
Original Language: French

Customer Reviews

Enlightening
What a marvel to see the magnificent truth of the master's work 250 years after he postulated it. What a treat to read Cole's translation side-by-side with the original French to see how closely he followed the intent and phraseology. What a surprise to discern the deeply-held Christian views of this acclaimed free-thinker who is so often misused by the secular, progressive socialists of our day. Merci, M. Rousseau!

Good points...
This book has very good points, it is a little long winded at times. It is a classic text of the enlightenment. Overall I would consider it a worth while read....

America
When are you going to start teaching true classic literature such as this in your public schools? Great, must read, for anybody who believes in human rights.