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Full Idea
No man has any natural authority over his fellows.
Gist of Idea
No man has any natural authority over his fellows
Source
Jean-Jacques Rousseau (The Social Contract (tr Cress) [1762], I.4)
Book Ref
Rousseau,Jean-Jacques: 'The Social Contract', ed/tr. Cranston,Maurice [Penguin 1972], p.53
A Reaction
This is, of course, specifically denying that superior strength is the same as a natural right. 'Right' might be a better word than 'authority'. If strength doesn't bestow a natural right, then presumably neither does weakness.
| 8020 | Only self-knowledge can liberate us [Spinoza, by MacIntyre] |
| 19864 | In nature men can dispose of possessions and their persons in any way that is possible [Locke] |
| 20581 | If men are born free, are women born slaves? [Astell] |
| 19774 | A savage can steal fruit or a home, but there is no means of achieving obedience [Rousseau] |
| 7232 | Man is born free, and he is everywhere in chains [Rousseau] |
| 7234 | No man has any natural authority over his fellows [Rousseau] |
| 7212 | Individuals have sovereignty over their own bodies and minds [Mill] |
| 8022 | I am naturally free if I am not tied to anyone by a contract [MacIntyre] |