Discours sur l'origine et les fondements de l'inégalité parmi les hommes

Rousseau's 1755 Discourses argues that societal inequalities are an inevitable outcome of civilization. He eloquently demonstrates how these disparities strip individuals of both material and psychological independence. While a return to a simpler 'state of nature' is impossible, understanding the costs of progress can inspire alternatives to modern society's corruption and conformity. This sweeping account of human social and political evolution is a provocative and influential work of the 18th century Enlightenment.