Jean-Jacques Rousseau

Enlightenment philosopher whose radical ideas shaped modern democracy

Jean-Jacques Rousseau (1712-1778) transformed political philosophy with his social contract theory in works like The Social Contract (1762). His concept of popular sovereignty directly influenced:

• The French Revolution's Declaration of the Rights of Man
• Modern democratic constitutions
• Educational theories through Émile

Rousseau's revolutionary ideas challenged divine right monarchy, proposing instead that 'man is born free, but everywhere is in chains'. His theories on general will and direct democracy remain foundational to political science.

Notable impacts include:

• Inspiring Robespierre and other revolutionary leaders
• Shaping Romanticism through Confessions
• Influencing child-centered education models