The Theory of Social Contract is divided into four volumes: the first volume discusses social structure and social contract, the second volume expounds sovereignty and its rights, the third volume expounds government and its operation form, and the fourth volume discusses several social organizations. The idea that sovereignty belongs to the people in social contract is the cornerstone of modern democratic system, which has deeply influenced the revolutionary movement in Europe and the independence war of British North American colonies.

2. On the origin and basis of human inequality

This book discusses the causes of social inequality and the ways to overcome it, and criticizes the feudal hierarchical relationship. The author believes that the development of production and the emergence of private ownership have separated mankind from the "natural state" and produced a social phenomenon of inequality between the rich and the poor. It is speculated that contradictions and struggles will turn into opposites, and development is a spiral process; It is recognized that private ownership is the root of social inequality, and that everyone owns a small amount of private property is the basis of social equality.

Step 3 repent

Confessions records Rousseau's life experience of more than 50 years from birth to 1766 when he was forced to leave St. Pierre Island. He narrated the rough treatment he suffered as a child, described the abuse he suffered after entering the society and all kinds of darkness and injustice he heard and saw, and angrily exposed the "law of the jungle", "might is right" and the ugliness and decay of the ruling class.

4. Emily

But Rousseau thinks that he is "the best and most important of all my works", which is a philosophical paper on human nature to a great extent, and is devoted to discussing political and philosophical issues about the relationship between individuals and society; In particular, how individuals can maintain their good nature in a society that inevitably tends to degenerate. When this book was published, it caused a sensation in France and some western European countries and had a great influence.

5. daydream of the lonely rambler

This book consists of ten ramblings. The first four rambles were written from the spring of 1776 to the spring of 1777, the last four were completed in 1777, and the ninth and tenth articles were probably written from 1778 to 12 in April. 1On May 20th, 778, Rousseau finally accepted the invitation of Marquis Geraldine, and when he left Paris to live in Emmenonville, he took away the manuscript of "The Retreat of the Lonely Rambler". Rousseau died suddenly on July 2 of the same year, and this book came to an abrupt end.