Rousseau's Critique of Locke and Hobbes' Notions of Social Contract and the Concept of General Will as an Alternative

  Rousseau's Critique of Locke and Hobbes' Notions of Social Contract and the Concept of General Will as an Alternative Introduction Jean-Jacques Rousseau, the influential Swiss philosopher, offers a distinct critique of both John Locke and Thomas Hobbes' notions of the social contract. Rousseau argues that their ideas fail to capture the true essence of a just and harmonious society. Instead, he presents the concept of the general will as an alternative to their traditional understanding of the social contract. This essay will explore Rousseau's criticisms of Locke and Hobbes and delve into the concept of the general will as a novel approach to the social contract. Rousseau's Critique of Locke and Hobbes Individualism: Rousseau criticizes both Locke and Hobbes for their emphasis on individual rights and interests. He argues that their social contracts prioritize individual liberties over the collective well-being of society, leading to inequality and division among members. Lack of Common Good: Rousseau contends that Locke and Hobbes fail to consider the common good or the general welfare of society in their social contract theories. Instead, they focus on self-interest and the protection of personal property, neglecting the broader needs and aspirations of the community as a whole. The Concept of General Will as an Alternative Collective Sovereignty: Rousseau's concept of the general will posits that true sovereignty resides in the collective body of citizens rather than in individual rulers or governments. The general will represents the common interest and desires of the entire community. Common Good: Unlike Locke and Hobbes, Rousseau emphasizes the importance of the common good in his notion of the general will. The general will aims to promote the well-being and flourishing of society as a whole, rather than prioritizing individual desires or interests. Inclusive Decision-Making: Rousseau argues that decisions made according to the general will must be inclusive and participatory. All individuals have an equal opportunity to contribute to the formation of laws and policies that reflect the collective desires and aspirations of society. Moral Authority: The general will carries a moral authority that supersedes individual opinions or interests. It represents what is best for society as a whole, guiding legislation and policies that promote the common good. Conclusion Rousseau's critique of Locke and Hobbes centers on their individualistic approaches to the social contract, which neglect the common good and prioritize personal rights and interests. In contrast, Rousseau introduces the concept of the general will, which emphasizes collective sovereignty, the common good, inclusive decision-making, and moral authority. The general will represents a shift towards a more communal understanding of the social contract, where decisions are made for the benefit of society as a whole rather than for individual gain. By embracing this concept, Rousseau offers an alternative vision for a just and harmonious society based on the collective wisdom and aspirations of its members.

Sample Answer