Synopses & Reviews
According to Rousseau, the best possible relationship between unequals is one of "benificence." This book addresses the problem implicit in his writings of whether it is indeed possible for a just and generous relationship to exist between non-equals. Judith Still draws together issues in Rousseau's work that are often treated in isolation: the state, just relations between individuals, sexual politics and the constructing of a feminine identity. Using techniques of reading drawn from literary theory, she argues that for Rousseau, it is sexual difference that disturbs the practice of benificence.
Synopsis
According to Rousseau, the best relationship between unequals is one of 'benificence'. Drawing on literary theory, Judith Still explores the problems implicit in such a belief.
Synopsis
Dr Still draws on literary theory to examine Rousseau's ideas about the individual and human relationships.
Table of Contents
Acknowledgements; A preliminary note on vocabulary and conventions; Introduction; 1. The problem: the intersection of beneficence and pudicity; 2. The code of beneficence; 3. The practice of beneficence and model benefactors in the major works; 4. The passion of pity in Rousseau's theory of man; 5. Gyges' ring: A reading of Rousseau's 6e Promenade; 6. Pudicity in some of Rousseau's minor writings: its relationship to beneficence; Conclusion; Appendix: Generosity and pudicity in Gyges und sein Ring and Le Roi Candaule; Notes; Bibliography; Index.