Chapter 3, A Discourse on the Origin of Inequality, Dedication and Preface Summary and Analysis

The Dedication opens with gratitude to Rousseau's rulers for giving him the chance to think about the origin of inequality. He argues that should he have had the choice of his birthplace, he would have chosen a place where the people are equal in their jobs, a place where the people know each other and are patriotic. He would choose a city where the interests of the ruler and the people are united. He wants to live his life and die in freedom.

Rousseau desires life in a city where the law rules all and that all people accept the state's ruling authority. He is concerned about republican government since governments and societies can sometimes have distinct and contradictory needs and...