Beginning with a helpful overview of Rousseau’s life and works, he introduces and assesses Rousseau’s central ideas and arguments. Publisher description: In this superb introduction, Nicholas Dent covers the whole of Rousseau’s thought. He explains how, in regressing to classical republicanism, ancient mythology, direct communication with God, and solitude, Rousseau anticipated some post-modernist rejections of the Enlightenment as well.Ĭategory: General Introduction | Length: 272 pages | Published: 2005 In this study of Rousseau’s life and works, Robert Wolker shows how his philosophy of history, his theories of music and politics, his fiction, educational, and religious writings, and even his botany, were all inspired by revolutionary ideals of mankind’s self-realization in a condition of unfettered freedom.

He was also its most formidable critic, condemning the political, economic, theological, and sexual trappings of civilization along lines that would excite the enthusiasm of romantic individualists and radical revolutionaries alike.

Publisher description: One of the most profound thinkers of modern history, Jean-Jacques Rousseau (1712-78) was a central figure of the European Enlightenment. Rousseau: A Very Short Introduction – Robert WoklerĬategory: Short Introduction | Length: 192 pages | Published: 2001 (2e) Here are the best books on or by Jean-Jacques Rousseau in no particular order. Following these links will help you quickly find a broader range of options if the listed books do not fit what you are looking for. Links to the syllabi and other sources used to create this list are at the end of the post. These lists were created by searching through hundreds of university course syllabi, internet encyclopedia bibliographies, and community recommendations. This list is part of a collection of over 100 philosophy reading lists which aim to provide a central resource for philosophy book recommendations. Personal book recommendations tend to be highly subjective, idiosyncratic, and unreliable. It’s also worth noting that it is not a list of personal recommendations. If you prefer more depth, you can choose a more comprehensive introduction or read Rousseau for yourself. For example, if you tend to find classic works of philosophy difficult to understand, you might want to start with a short, beginner-friendly introduction. The best book for you will depend heavily on your preferred learning style and the amount of time/energy you’re willing to spend reading. It’s important to note that there is no single best book on Rousseau.

From beginner-friendly introductions to classic works by Rousseau, this page features books to suit any learning style.

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