Jean-Jacques Rousseau

Jean-Jacques Rousseau (1712-1778) was a prominent Genevan philosopher, writer, and composer of the 18th century, whose works deeply influenced the Enlightenment across Europe and aspects of the French Revolution. Born on June 28, 1712, in Geneva, Rousseau was orphaned at a young age and spent much of his early life in search of stability. Moving to France in his early 30s, Rousseau befriended key Enlightenment figures, including Denis Diderot.

Rousseau’s key philosophical works include "Discourse on the Arts and Sciences" (1750), "Discourse on the Origin and Basis of Inequality Among Men" (1755), "The Social Contract" (1762), and "Émile, or On Education" (1762). These writings critiqued contemporary society and laid the groundwork for modern political and educational thought. In "The Social Contract," Rousseau argued for the concept of popular sovereignty and the idea that legitimate political authority comes from a social contract agreed upon by all citizens.

Rousseau’s novel "Julie, or the New Heloise" and his autobiography "Confessions" also earned acclaim, influencing Romantic literature. His ideas on education emphasized natural human development and were groundbreaking for the time. Rousseau died on July 2, 1778, in Ermenonville, France. His revolutionary ideas on freedom, equality, and individuality remain integral to modern social and political philosophy.