Full Idea
In relation to a foreign power, the body politic is a simple entity, an individual.
Gist of Idea
To foreign powers a state is seen as a simple individual
Source
Jean-Jacques Rousseau (The Social Contract (tr Cress) [1762], I.7)
Book Reference
Rousseau,Jean-Jacques: 'The Social Contract', ed/tr. Cranston,Maurice [Penguin 1972], p.63
A Reaction
This is strikingly contrary to the spirit of liberalism, in which I may be appalled by the foreign policy of my own government, and protest strongly against it. Rousseau might be considered as freedom's greatest champion, and greatest enemy!