General will

Definition

The general will is a concept introduced by Jean-Jacques Rousseau, referring to the collective will of the citizenry that seeks the common good and public interest. This idea emphasizes the importance of prioritizing the needs of the community over individual desires, and it serves as a foundation for direct democracy, where citizens actively participate in decision-making processes that reflect this collective will.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Rousseau argues that the general will is not merely the sum of individual preferences, but rather a higher expression of the collective interest that transcends personal desires.
2. The general will is central to Rousseau's vision of a legitimate political authority, as it aligns with the idea that true sovereignty resides with the people.
3. Rousseau believed that when citizens act in accordance with the general will, they achieve true freedom by participating in their own governance.
4. The concept challenges liberal ideas of individualism by asserting that personal freedom is only meaningful when aligned with the common good.
5. Rousseau viewed public participation and civic engagement as essential for realizing the general will, promoting a more involved citizenry in shaping societal outcomes.

Review Questions

• How does Rousseau differentiate between the general will and individual interests, and why is this distinction important?
  • Rousseau differentiates between the general will and individual interests by asserting that the general will reflects the common good while individual interests may only serve personal desires. This distinction is crucial because it emphasizes that true political legitimacy comes from actions that benefit society as a whole rather than just a few individuals. By focusing on the general will, Rousseau argues for a political system that promotes civic engagement and collective decision-making, ultimately enhancing freedom through participation.
• Discuss how the concept of general will supports Rousseau's argument for direct democracy.
  • The concept of general will supports Rousseau's argument for direct democracy by positing that citizens should actively engage in decision-making processes that reflect their collective interests. In direct democracy, citizens can voice their opinions and vote on laws and policies, ensuring that these reflect the general will rather than being dictated by representatives. This alignment allows for greater accountability and responsiveness to the needs of the community, reinforcing Rousseau's belief that sovereignty lies with the people.
• Evaluate the implications of applying Rousseau's idea of general will in modern democratic societies and potential challenges that may arise.
  • Applying Rousseau's idea of general will in modern democratic societies implies a strong emphasis on civic engagement and collective decision-making to achieve the common good. However, challenges may arise due to diverse opinions and interests within a population, making it difficult to ascertain what constitutes the general will. Additionally, modern complexities such as misinformation, unequal access to participation, and political polarization can hinder effective expression of the general will. Balancing individual freedoms with collective interests remains an ongoing debate in contemporary political discourse.

Related terms

social contract: A philosophical agreement among individuals to form a society and establish governance based on mutual consent, often associated with the works of Rousseau and other Enlightenment thinkers.

direct democracy: A form of democracy in which citizens directly participate in decision-making and legislation, as opposed to relying on elected representatives.

common good: The benefit or interests of all members of a community, often seen as the ultimate aim of political and social arrangements.