The Social Contract
"Man is born free; and everywhere he is in chains."These are the famous opening words of a treatise that has not ceased to stir vigorous debate since its first publication in 1762. Rejecting the view that anyone has a natural right to wield authority over others, Rousseau argues instead for a pact, or 'social contract', that should exist between all the citizens of a state and that should be the source of sovereign power. From this fundamental premise, he goes on to consider issues of liberty and law, freedom and justice, arriving at a view of society that has seemed to some a blueprint for totalitarianism, to others a declaration of democratic principles.
History & Politics Philosophy & Religion Non-Fiction Literature & Fiction Other Countries & Geography Arts & Design Nature & Environment Science & Technology Children & Young Adult Science Fiction & Fantasy Mystery & Thriller Business & Finance Romance Health & Medicine Self-Help & Wellness Sports & Recreation Food & Cooking