key term - General Will

Definition

General Will refers to the collective will of the citizens in a society, emphasizing the common good and the interests of the community as a whole rather than individual desires. This concept is central to the Enlightenment thinkers, particularly Jean-Jacques Rousseau, who believed that true freedom is achieved when individuals align their personal interests with the general will, promoting equality and democracy in governance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Rousseau argued that the general will is not merely the majority opinion but rather reflects what is best for the entire community.
2. The concept challenges individualism by asserting that personal interests must sometimes be sacrificed for the sake of collective well-being.
3. The general will has been used to justify democratic principles, suggesting that laws should be based on what serves the public interest.
4. Rousseau claimed that when individuals act according to their own desires instead of the general will, they undermine social order and justice.
5. This idea influenced revolutionary movements, advocating for societal structures that prioritize equality and communal decision-making.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of General Will differ from simple majority rule?
  • General Will differs from simple majority rule in that it represents a collective interest aimed at achieving the common good rather than just reflecting what most people want at any given time. While majority rule can lead to decisions that may favor one group over others, General Will seeks to unite all citizens' interests for a fairer outcome. Rousseau emphasized that true freedom comes from aligning personal interests with what benefits society as a whole.
• Discuss how General Will supports democratic governance and its implications for individual rights.
  • General Will supports democratic governance by asserting that legitimacy comes from the collective consent of the governed, promoting active participation in decision-making. This concept implies that while individual rights are important, they may need to be balanced against the needs of the community. In practice, this can mean that laws and policies should reflect collective values and priorities rather than just individual desires, fostering a sense of responsibility among citizens towards their society.
• Evaluate how the idea of General Will has influenced modern political thought and movements.
  • The idea of General Will has significantly influenced modern political thought, particularly in shaping concepts of democracy, citizenship, and social justice. By advocating for a government that reflects collective interests over individual whims, it has inspired movements for civil rights and social reforms aimed at greater equality. Contemporary debates around populism and community governance often reference General Will as a framework for understanding how societies can effectively balance individual freedoms with collective responsibilities, demonstrating its lasting relevance in today's political landscape.

Related terms

Social Contract:

An agreement among individuals to form a society and government, surrendering some freedoms for protection and the common good.

Popular Sovereignty: The principle that the authority of the government is created and sustained by the consent of its people, who are the source of political power.

Civil Liberty: The state of being subject only to laws established for the good of the community, as opposed to being subject to the whims of an authority.