Politics as the Imitation of the Divine in Rousseau's "Social Contract"

Abstract

Rousseau's Social Contract is a staple of western political thought, widely and variously interpreted. This article argues that it is better understood when one sees how Rousseau intends politics to be an imitation of the divine. Treating Rousseau's natural theology as an essential part of his political philisophy, the author explores the character of the State, the nature and functioning of the general will, and the role of the legislator, and concludes that this approach enriches understanding of each.

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