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state of nature is the hypothetical, prehistoric place and time where human beings
live uncorrupted by society. The most important characteristic of the state of nature
is that people have complete physical freedom and are at liberty to do essentially as
they wish. That said, the state of nature also carries the drawback that human
beings have not yet discovered rationality or morality. In different works, Rousseau
alternately emphasizes the benefits and shortfalls of the state of nature, but by and
large he reveres it for the physical freedom it grants people, allowing them to be
unencumbered by the coercive influence of the state and society. In this regard,
Rousseaus conception of the state of nature is entirely more positive than Hobbess
conception of the same idea, as Hobbes, who originated the term, viewed the state
of nature as essentially a state of war and violence. This difference in definition
indicates the two philosophers differing views of human nature, which Rousseau
viewed as essentially good and Hobbes as essentially base and brutal. Finally,
Rousseau acknowledged that although we can never return to the state of nature,
understanding it is essential for societys members to more fully realize their natural
goodness.
As Rousseau explains, the general will is the will of the sovereign, or all the people
together, that aims at the common goodwhat is best for the state as a whole. The
most solid appearance of the general will in a healthy state comes in the form of
law. To Rousseau, laws should always record what the people collectively desire (the
general will) and should always be universally applicable to all members of the
state. Further, they should exist to ensure that peoples individual freedom is
upheld, thereby guaranteeing that people remain loyal to the sovereign at all times.