Quote by Terry Eagleton
It is in Rousseau's writing above all that history begins to turn from upper-class honour to middle-class humanitarianism. Pity, sympathy and compassion lie at the centre of his moral vision. Values associated with the feminine begin to infiltrate social existence as a whole, rather than being confined to the domestic sphere.
Summary
This quote highlights Rousseau's significant role in a shift from an emphasis on upper-class honor to middle-class humanitarian values in history. Rousseau's writings promote the idea of pity, sympathy, and compassion as central to moral judgment. Furthermore, the quote suggests that Rousseau's ideas blur traditional gender roles by emphasizing values traditionally associated with femininity in all aspects of society rather than confining them to the domestic sphere. Ultimately, Rousseau's work reflects a changing perspective on moral values and the influence of empathy and compassion on social existence.
Topics
History
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