Rousseau the Social Contract\" War
War then is a relation, not between man and man, but between State and State, and individuals are enemies only accidentally, not as men, nor even as citizens" -- Rousseau
Rousseau in the Social Contract,
This essay examines Rousseau's theory of the social contract, and particularly the idea of the general will. Rousseau's theory of the general will is problematic for many readers, because at first glance it appears counterintuitive and actually somewhat cruel. However, when considered in light of Rousseau's emphasis on debate and reason, it becomes clear that the general will, far from being restricting, actually serves to allow the individual the most freedom possible.