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Hobbes vs. Rousseau on Man and the State

Peter Kreeft

May 4, 2023

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In lecture 10, Dr. Kreeft examines two totalitarians, Hobbes and Rousseau, on the question of what makes a good society. He contrasts Hobbes’ “hard totalitarianism” with the “soft (democratic) totalitarianism” of Rousseau, and he identifies the flaws in both approaches.

In this lecture series, Dr. Peter Kreeft examines key ideas in philosophy by comparing and contrasting two representative philosophers in each episode.

To learn more about these philosophers and the other major philosophers who helped shape the world, check out Dr. Kreeft’s book series, “Socrates’ Children: An Introduction to Philosophy from the 100 Greatest Philosophers.”