"Man is born free, and everywhere he is in chains."
Rousseau argues that individuals must surrender their rights to the "general will" that represents the collective will of the people, which aims for the common good. By entering into a social contract, individuals make sacrifices but maximize their freedom.
The government's role is to administer the general will of the people.
Rousseau was a central figure in the Enlightenment. The Social Contract led to the fall of monarchies, such as in the French Revolution, and laid the foundation for many modern democratic states.
Key themes include the following: democratic theory, individual rights, civic duties, social inequality, morality.
We will be IN the park. Look for a large, blue mat. I will post which area of the park on the day of the meeting (e.g. SE corner under a tree).
Bring anything that will make you feel comfortable (e.g. water, sweater, chair).