Jean-Jacques Rousseau, while not a socialist in the modern sense, was indeed an opponent of capitalism. His views and activities were centered around criticizing the inequalities and injustices perpetuated by the capitalist system of his time. Rousseau believed that capitalism led to social divisions and the exploitation of the working class.
In his famous book, “The Social Contract,” Rousseau argued that society should be based on the general will of the people, rather than on individual self-interest. He believed that the capitalist system encouraged selfishness and competition, leading to a society where the rich and powerful dominated over the poor and disadvantaged.
Rousseau’s critique of capitalism stemmed from his belief that property rights and the accumulation of wealth created inequality and undermined the common good. He argued that private property, which is a fundamental principle of capitalism, led to the exploitation of the less fortunate by the wealthy elite. Rousseau believed that the accumulation of wealth and material possessions corrupted human nature and contributed to social inequality.
Moreover, Rousseau believed that capitalism promoted a culture of consumerism and materialism, where people valued material possessions over their own well-being and the well-being of others. He saw this as detrimental to human happiness and advocated for a more communal and egalitarian society.
It is worth mentioning that Rousseau’s views on capitalism were not without criticism. Some argue that his ideas were idealistic and unrealistic, as they did not provide practical solutions for organizing an economy without private property or markets. Critics also point out that Rousseau’s emphasis on the general will could potentially lead to authoritarianism or the suppression of individual freedoms.
Furthermore, it is important to note that Rousseau and Voltaire did indeed have a contentious relationship. While both were influential thinkers of the Enlightenment, they held vastly different views on various subjects, including politics and religion. Voltaire was a staunch defender of Enlightenment ideals, including capitalism, while Rousseau was more critical of the existing social and economic order.
While Jean-Jacques Rousseau was not a socialist, he was an opponent of capitalism. His views on the inequalities and injustices perpetuated by the capitalist system were reflected in his writings and activities. Rousseau’s ideas on the social contract and the general will challenged the individualism and self-interest inherent in capitalism, advocating for a more communal and egalitarian society.