Discourse on Political Economy and The Social Contract
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Author Description
Revolutionary in its own time and controversial to this day, this work is a permanent classic of political theory and a key source of democratic belief. Rousseau's concepts of "the general will" as a mode of self-interest uniting for a common good, and the submission of the individual to government by contract inform the heart of democracy, and stand as its most contentious components today. Also included in this edition is Rousseau's Discourse on Political Economy", a key transitional work between his Discourse on Inequality and The Social Contract. This new translation offers fresh insight into a cornerstone of political thought, which is further illuminated by a comprehensive introduction and notes.About the Series: For over 100 years Oxford World's Classics has made available the broadest spectrum of literature from around the globe. Each affordable volume reflects Oxford's commitment to scholarship, providing the most accurate text plus a wealth of other valuable features, including expert introductions by leading authorities, voluminous notes to clarify the text, up-to-date bibliographies for further study, and much more.
Menrva's Summary
THE THESIS
This work investigates the fundamental legitimacy of political authority and the moral obligations of the individual within a structured society. Jean-Jacques Rousseau, a seminal figure of the Enlightenment, utilizes a framework of social contract theory to argue that legitimate governance must derive from the collective will of the people rather than the arbitrary power of a sovereign. By examining the tension between individual liberty and state authority, the text establishes the conceptual basis for modern democratic governance and the concept of the general will.
THE SCOPE MAP
What You Will Find
- Analysis of the social contract as a mechanism for legitimate political association
- Theoretical exploration of the general will as a collective moral force
- Examination of the relationship between individual self-interest and the common good
- Historical context regarding the transition from absolute monarchy to democratic theory
THE AUTHORITY PERSPECTIVE
Scholars and political theorists consistently identify this volume as a foundational text for understanding the evolution of Western democratic thought. Readers frequently note the dense, rigorous nature of the prose, which requires careful study to fully grasp the nuances of Rousseau's political philosophy.
Page Count:
256
Publication Date:
2009-01-01
Publisher:
Oxford University Press
ISBN-10:
0199538964
ISBN-13:
9780199538966
Classics
History
Philosophy
Political Theory
