Rousseau s Views On The State Of Nature And Civilization

In this essay, I will compare the contrasting views between Thomas Hobbes and Jean Jacques Rousseau based on the state of nature and civilization. Rousseau was seen as an optimist who viewed human nature as good (â€Å"Noble Savage†) and believed that civilization corrupted us; While, Hobbes thought the complete opposite believing that humans in their natural state were selfish creatures purely interested in themselves and that government is imperative in keeping us in check. Throughout this essay, I will further explain their differing ideas and I will show how I view and interpret them as well. As I’ve stated before, Jean Jacque-Rousseau and Hobbes have contrasting views when it comes to the state of nature. Rousseau held an optimistic view of the state of nature. He viewed humans who lived in early times as â€Å"Noble Savages† and that man was â€Å"naturally good.† Rousseau viewed individuals who lived in a state of nature were happier, healthier, self-sufficient and had the freedom to do as they desired. To live in a state of nature was to live a simple life focused on family, self-love, and self-preservation. Rousseau believed we were better off in a state of nature, where as civilization corrupts us. Had Thomas Hobbes been alive during Rousseau’s time, or vice-versa, they would have been the greatest of rivals. Hobbes was a psychological egoist and materialist who saw human beings as selfish creatures who do things out of their own self interest. He had pessimistic views on theShow MoreRelatedThomas Hobbes And Jean Jacques Rousseau1728 Words   |  7 PagesHobbes and Jean Jacques Rousseau are both considered Enlightenment thinkers, their ideas vary greatly in the political continuum. 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