Man or Citizen

In Man or Citizen, Volume 1, scholar Karen Pagani examines the complex relationship between emotion and identity in the works of Jean-Jacques Rousseau. This philosophy text explores how anger and forgiveness serve as defining characteristics for both the private individual and the public citizen. Pagani analyzes Rousseau's autobiographical, literary, and philosophical writings to demonstrate how the social meanings of anger shifted during the eighteenth century. The study focuses on how Rousseau utilized indignation toward society and specific intellectual rivals to shape his moral framework.

This scholarly work positions anger as an indispensable element of human nature rather than a mere impulse. Pagani argues that the ability to experience and resolve anger is a fundamental requirement for good citizenship and moral integrity. By investigating the intersection of emotion and politics, Man or Citizen, Volume 1, provides a deep criticism and interpretation of Rousseau's unique perspective on authenticity. This book is a significant contribution to the study of Rousseau, Jean-Jacques, 1712-1778.