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Based on Rousseau's views of human nature, do you think he thought people can be trusted to govern themselves?

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Final answer:

Rousseau believed that people cannot be trusted to govern themselves. He argued for the establishment of a government through a social contract to protect the common good and freedom of citizens. Rousseau favored direct democracy to ensure active citizen participation and prevent the concentration of power.

Step-by-step explanation:

Based on Rousseau's views of human nature, he believed that people cannot be trusted to govern themselves. Rousseau argued that individuals are driven by their self-interests and passions, which can lead to conflicts and injustice if left unchecked. He believed that a government formed through a social contract should be established to protect the common good and ensure the freedom and equality of all citizens. Rousseau advocated for direct democracy, where citizens actively participate in political affairs, to uphold the 'general will' and prevent the concentration of power.

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