Single Idea 19843

[catalogued under 24. Political Theory / C. Ruling a State / 4. Changing the State / c. Revolution]

Full Idea

The state is no more bound to leave civil authority to its leaders than it is to leave military authority to its generals.

Gist of Idea

The state is not bound to leave civil authority to its leaders

Source

Jean-Jacques Rousseau (The Social Contract (tr Cress) [1762], III.18)

Book Reference

Rousseau,Jean-Jacques: 'The Basic Political Writings', ed/tr. Cress,Donald A. [Hackett 1987], p.202


A Reaction

He assumes that a meeting of the citizens can articulate a new expression of the general will, but this idea also endorses revolution, if the prince or magistrates refuse to call this national AGM.