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Contemporary Civilization

“Once someone says what do I care? about the affairs of state, the state should be considered lost.” (Rousseau, Social Contract, Chapter XV, Book III).

Discourse on Inequality & Social Contract

Author: 

Jean-Jacques Rousseau

1712 CE – 1778 CE

Rousseau’s life was colorful, complicated and included moments of great personal tragedy and intellectual achievement.  Rousseau’s mother, Suzanne Bernard, died shortly after Jean-Jacques’s birth in Geneva on June 28, 1712.  The word to describe Rousseau’s life is peripatetic.  

Explorations

Explorations labeled “Licensed for Private Use” are available only to members of the Columbia community.