Single Idea 7234

[catalogued under 24. Political Theory / A. Basis of a State / 3. Natural Values / a. Natural freedom]

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 Reference

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.