Rousseau: the formation of the state and the power of authority

Abstract

This study aims to present the legitimization of the formation of the civil state and the constitution of the power of authority according to Rousseau. The arguments and concepts of the central ideas that embody and substantiate both the State and the power of authority will be analyzed basically based on the text The Social Contract and its main commentators. With this, it will be verified whether the civil status is really solidly supported by the convention of the general will or by the interests of the joint wills and, if the power exercised by the authorities is in fact fair and legitimate to govern. Therefore, this theory is supported by the extent to which Rousseau creates and proposes the social contract as a civilizing solution for man, giving up the confrontations of the state of nature and adhering to civil coexistence in society with equal rights and duties for all. The conventions of unique individuals will form the Civil State and their authority will be legitimized by the people as it manifests itself in the general will.