The Ambivalence of Human Sociality : Rousseau and Recognition

Abstract

Although Jean-Jacques Rousseau does not use the term “recognition” in the sense that it has been known since Fichte and Hegel, he has had an influence on various theorists of recognition. Undoubtedly, the key reason for this is his insightful writings that deal with various aspects of human sociality. In this essay, I shall reconstruct key elements of Rousseau’s work to highlight how he understands human sociality. The second task of the essay is to highlight the meaning of Rousseau’s insights to contemporary recognition theory. Rousseau is well known for his scepticism of modern social life. This shows especially in his analysis of amour-propre, a self-love that appears as a desire for social recognition and distinction from others. Unlike recognition theorists, Rousseau focuses on the inequalizing force of pride and search for esteem. In other words, Rousseau emphasizes the potential social harms that might rise from various struggles for recognition. In his view, individuals face a challenge to balance amour-propre in a healthy, and not inflamed manner. If the balancing is unsuccessful, the unchecked desire for social value leads into increasing (and institutionalized) inequality. However, Rousseau is also aware of the more positive and constructive elements of human sociality and puts value on the social bonds that are built upon respect and goodwill. Furthermore, although Rousseau is highly sceptical of the possibilities of respect and freedom in modern society, in Emile he outlines how freedom could be achieved through upbringing that invites (or even forces) one to be free—not unlike Fichte’s idea of summoning one to realize one’s own agency. Ultimately, Rousseau presents an ambivalent picture of the nature of social relationships. This is a position that has been developed in detail recognition theories only recently (e.g. Ikäheimo et al., Recognition and Ambivalence, Columbia University Press, New York, 2021). Although Rousseau does not have all the conceptual tools of the recent recognition theories at his disposal, he arguably has a developed picture of the positive and the negative effects that stem from the very same desire for recognition.