Rousseau's Rejuvenation of Political Philosophy

Introduction .- Philosophic Anthropology in the Discourse on Inequality .- The Evolution of Humanity in Language: Discourse on Inequality and Essay on the Origin of Languages .- Greatness of Soul and the Souls of Women: Rousseau's Use of Plato's Laws in the Letter to D'Alembert .- Nature and Marriage: Emile or On Education .- Political Legitimacy, Direct Democracy, and American Politics

Nelson Lund is University Professor at George Mason University, USA, where he is primarily affiliated with its Law School. He has published widely in political philosophy, jurisprudence, American constitutional law, civil rights, and bioethics.

"Lund's work is unique in the scholarship for paying special attention to Rousseau's own explicit references to Plato. This is undoubtably the best starting point for figuring out the relation between these authors. ... I think Lund certainly makes a valuable contribution to Rousseau scholarship. He has shown both Rousseau's deep connection with his ancient predecessors and the enduring relevance of his political philosophy." (Kimberley Burns, The Review of Politics, Vol. 82 (1), 2020)
"Nelson Lund has written a deeply thoughtful and trenchantly argued introduction to Rousseau's political philosophy. It is not an introduction in the usual sense. Beginners who enjoy thinking hard will find the book a good first approach to Rousseau, but long-time readers of Rousseau will find detailed and challenging arguments ... . What his present study has achieved is remarkable." (Paul Ludwig, Interpretation. A Journal of Political Philosophy, Vol. 44 (2), Winter, 2018)

"The book does include detailed analyses of many of Rousseau's more widely read texts ... . This book is sure to be influential among all who are interested in Rousseau and political philosophy. ... Summing Up: Highly recommended. Upper-division undergraduates through faculty." (R. C. Robinson, Choice, Vol. 54 (9), May, 2017)