General Will

Definition

General will refers to the collective desire or consensus of the people in a society, prioritizing the common good over individual interests. It emphasizes the notion that true sovereignty lies with the populace, and decisions should reflect the collective will rather than personal agendas. This concept is central to social contract theory, where citizens agree to form a community governed by the general will for mutual benefit.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The concept of general will was prominently discussed by Jean-Jacques Rousseau in the 18th century, shaping Enlightenment ideas about democracy and governance.
2. Rousseau argued that general will represents what is best for the community as a whole, transcending individual preferences.
3. General will can be seen as a guiding principle for forming laws and policies that reflect the collective interests of society.
4. Rousseau believed that true freedom is found in obedience to the general will, as it aligns individual actions with the common good.
5. The idea of general will has influenced modern democratic theories and practices, emphasizing participatory governance and civic responsibility.

Review Questions

• How does Rousseau's concept of general will challenge individualism in political thought?
  • Rousseau's concept of general will challenges individualism by asserting that the common good must take precedence over personal desires. He believed that individuals should subordinate their own interests to the collective will, as this leads to a more just and cohesive society. This shift from individual rights to communal responsibility encourages citizens to think beyond themselves and consider their role in fostering a united community.
• In what ways does the idea of general will relate to modern democratic practices?
  • The idea of general will relates to modern democratic practices by emphasizing the importance of collective decision-making and active citizen participation. It advocates for laws and policies that reflect the interests of the majority while still considering minority viewpoints. This connection highlights how contemporary democracies strive to achieve a balance between representing diverse perspectives and upholding the common good as envisioned by Rousseau.
• Evaluate how Rousseau's general will might address contemporary societal issues such as inequality or environmental concerns.
  • Rousseau's general will could address contemporary societal issues like inequality or environmental concerns by promoting policies that prioritize collective welfare over individual profit. By aligning government actions with the general will, solutions could emerge that ensure equitable distribution of resources and protect natural environments for future generations. This approach encourages communities to come together and advocate for changes that benefit all members, reinforcing social bonds and shared responsibilities.

Related terms

Social Contract: An implicit agreement among individuals to form a society and abide by its rules for the benefit of all, often involving the surrender of some freedoms in exchange for protection and social order.

Popular Sovereignty: The principle that the authority of a government is created and sustained by the consent of its people, often expressed through voting and democratic participation.

Rousseau: Jean-Jacques Rousseau was an Enlightenment thinker who articulated the idea of general will in his work 'The Social Contract,' arguing that legitimate political authority must be based on the general will of the people.