Description: Offers an interpretation of the theory of freedom in the Social Contract. The author gives a careful analysis of Rousseau's theory of the social pact, and then examines the kinds of freedom that it brings about, showing how Rousseau's individualist and collectivist aspects fit into a larger and logically coherent theory of human liberty.
Review Quotes: 'Simpson pays unusually close attention to the precision of Rousseau's language and the logic of his argument. I regard his study as one of the two or three best treatments of the Social Contract in any language. In addition to providing a clear and deep account of Rousseau's thought, Simpson considers its relevance to contemporary liberal theory. He does so without distorting either Rousseau's thought or that of the contemporary thinkers he discusses. He succeeds in showing that Rousseau is not merely a precursor, but is also a valuable interlocutor in modern debates.' Christopher Kelly, Boston College