Discourse on the Sciences and Arts
Interesting Facts
- The essay was written in response to a question posed by the Academy of Dijon: «Has the restoration of the sciences and arts contributed to the purification of morals?»
- Rousseau claims that progress in sciences and arts has led to the moral decay of society.
- The essay brought Rousseau widespread fame and won the first prize in the Academy of Dijon competition in 1750.
- Rousseau criticizes the society of his time for valuing external achievements more than inner virtues.
- The work laid the foundation for Rousseau's further philosophical reflections on human nature and society.
Date of publication: 16 September 2024
Updated: 14 November 2026
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Genre: Philosophy
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