Jean-Jacques Rousseau (1712-1778)
- Swiss philosopher, writer, and composer
- Best known for his political philosophy, which is expressed in his two most famous works: The Social Contract (1762) and Émile (1762)
- Believed that the natural state of man was one of freedom and equality, and that society corrupts this natural state
- Argued that the only legitimate form of government is one based on the consent of the governed
- His work had a profound influence on the French Revolution and the development of modern democracy
Voltaire (1694-1778)
- French Enlightenment writer, historian, and philosopher
- Best known for his criticism of Christianity and his advocacy of freedom of speech, freedom of religion, and separation of church and state
- Wrote numerous books, essays, and plays that satirized the institutions of his time
- His work had a major impact on the development of modern secularism and democracy
Rousseau and Voltaire were both brilliant thinkers who had a profound impact on the course of history. Their ideas helped to shape the world we live in today.