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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. What does Rousseau argue the arts force men to reward people based on?

2. What does laziness do to men according to Rousseau?

3. What does Rousseau say men can hide from open discernment?

4. What does Rousseau say is the reason for the increase he saw in France?

5. Which place does the Dedication praise as a virtuous republic?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Rousseau believe about open discernment?

2. How has art and science affected France, according to Chapter 1?

3. What alarming consequences does science have, according to Chapter 2?

4. What are three main influences on Rousseau's work, according to the Introduction?

5. What paradox does Rousseau discuss in Chapter 1?

6. What does the Second Discourse focus on?

7. What is the most popular form of government in 18th century France and how is it described?

8. What does Rousseau state has fallen apart in Chapter 1?

9. Who does Rousseau refer to in his statement about how the sciences to not improve morals?

10. What examples does Rousseau offer in his demonstration of how progress produced corruption?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The theme of corruption is prominent and is closely related to nature. In an essay, define corruption, discuss its effects on mankind, and relate them to the types of corruption which Rousseau discusses. Use the text to support your discussion.

Essay Topic 2

In an essay, discuss Rousseau's theory on economic inequality and discuss the ramifications of his theory on the populace, as well as on the economy. Students may rebut his comments with support from critics or by examining the concentration of wealth. Students should use the text to support their discussion.

Essay Topic 3

In an essay, Rousseau discusses how securing freedom of citizens is the sole purpose of the state. Discuss the role of the state and compare the types of government. Use the text to support your discussion.

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