Question

Provide a contrasting reflection explaining Rousseau and Hibbes view on state of nature. Provide examples to justify your reflection. In five much simple and understandable sentences

Answer 1

Jean-Jacques Rousseau and Thomas Hobbes had very different views on the state of nature. Rousseau believed that humans were naturally good and peaceful, enjoying freedom and equality before society corrupted them. For example, he thought that in the state of nature, people lived harmoniously, sharing resources without greed. In contrast, Hobbes saw humans as inherently selfish and violent, suggesting that life in the state of nature would be "solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short." He used the example of a "war of all against all," where without a strong government, chaos would reign. Their contrasting views reflect fundamental differences in how they see human nature and the need for social order.