more from Jean-Jacques Rousseau

Single Idea 19848

[catalogued under 24. Political Theory / B. Nature of a State / 2. State Legitimacy / a. Sovereignty]

Full Idea

The election of leaders is a function of government and not of the sovereignty.

Gist of Idea

The sovereignty does not appoint the leaders

Source

Jean-Jacques Rousseau (The Social Contract (tr Cress) [1762], IV.3)

Book Reference

Rousseau,Jean-Jacques: 'The Basic Political Writings', ed/tr. Cress,Donald A. [Hackett 1987], p.207


A Reaction

The point is that the general will only establishes the form of government, and not its content. In Britain we accept leaders who are appointed by their own party, and not by the electorate.