Biography
Jean-Jacques Rousseau (1712–1778) was a profound philosopher whose thoughts profoundly influenced the Enlightenment in France and across Europe, as well as aspects of the French Revolution and the development of modern political, economic, and educational thought.
Rousseau's most famous work, The Social Contract, posits that "Man is born free, and everywhere he is in chains." This work introduced concepts of citizenship and democratic governance that have had enduring effects on modern political systems.
Explore more about Rousseau's Works or learn about another brilliant Enlightenment thinker, Voltaire.
If you want to know more about his philosophies and how they shaped political thought, click here.