If humans are benevolent by nature; how do societies become corrupt? And how do governments founded upon the defense of individual rights degenerate into tyranny? These are the questions addressed by Jean-Jacques Rousseau's Discourse on the Origin of Inequality; a strikingly original inquiry into much-explored issues of 18th-century (and subsequent) philosophy: human nature and the best form of government.Rousseau takes an innovative approach by introducing a "hypothetical history" that presents a theoretical view of people in a pre-social condition and the ensuing effects of civilization. In his sweeping account of humanity's social and political development; the author develops a theory of human evolution that prefigures Darwinian thought and encompasses aspects of ethics; sociology; and epistemology. He concludes that people are inevitably corrupt as a result of both natural (or physical) inequalities and moral (or political) inequalities.One of the most influential works of the Enlightenment; the Discourse on the Origin of Inequality offers a thought-provoking account of society's origins and a keen criticism of unequal modern political institutions.
#1158232 in Books 1988-11-01 1988-11-01Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 1.08 x 5.42 x 8.49l; #File Name: 0486258033545 pages
Review
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. from fetish to god in ancient egyptBy Michael W. PattisonIt's by Wallis Budge; need anything else be said? A brilliant book. Erudite. Comprehensive and readable. Superb! Everything you need to know on this very wide subject.The section on determinatives is extremely useful. To anyone with an interest in Egyptology this is a 'Must Have' publication.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Lots of imformationBy E. WalthourGREAT READ....you must own a copy for you reading....14 of 14 people found the following review helpful. A fine book; but not for beginnersBy A CustomerThis is a useful and informative book on the evolution of religion in ancient Egypt (and the evolution of Egypt itself); but don't make the mistake (as I did) of reading it as an introduction to Egyptian mythology. It is virtually impossible to understand everything Budge says if you do not already have a fair understanding of the basics of Egyptian mythology. However; if you have already studied a bit of mythology; you should find this book very helpful in understanding how tribal fetishes became revered national gods (and; in the process; how Egypt became one of the superpowers of the ancient world).
