“We are born, so to speak, twice over; born into existence, and born into life; born a human being, and born a man.”
- June 28, 1712 – July 2, 1778
- Born in Geneva
- Philosopher, political philosopher, writer, composer
- He advocated popular sovereignty in “The Social Contract” and influenced the French Revolution and modern democracy.
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Quote
“We are born, so to speak, twice over; born into existence, and born into life; born a human being, and born a man.”
Explanation
In this quote, Jean-Jacques Rousseau reflects on the two stages of human development: the biological birth into existence and the social or cultural birth into life as a fully realized individual within society. The first “birth” is the physical arrival of a person into the world, while the second is the emergence of a person’s identity, shaped by society, education, and personal experiences. Rousseau’s distinction between being born a human being (a creature of nature) and born a man (a member of society) underscores his belief that while humans are naturally free and equal, society shapes them into individuals who adopt roles, behaviors, and values that may not align with their original, natural state.
Historically, Rousseau’s ideas were revolutionary, as he critiqued the ways in which society and civilization corrupted the innate goodness of humans. In works like The Social Contract and Emile, or On Education, Rousseau argued that society, with its institutions and structures, imposes artificial norms that influence and often diminish the natural freedom of individuals. His distinction between the human being and the man reflects his view that individuals, upon entering society, are shaped by external forces—education, culture, and politics—into something distinct from their original, natural selves.
In modern times, this quote can be applied to ongoing discussions about the influence of society on identity and individual development. In a world increasingly shaped by social media, cultural expectations, and political systems, individuals may feel the tension between their authentic self and the roles they are expected to play in society. Rousseau’s words encourage reflection on the ways in which personal freedom and individuality can be constrained or shaped by external influences. They remind us of the importance of nurturing the natural self while navigating the demands of the world around us.
