ABSTRACT
One of the more ironic aspects of the political thought of the author's time is the tendency to trace the roots of totalitarianism to democratic rather than to antidemocratic ideas. This tendency can be seen in recent writing on Rousseau. One of the main charges against Rousseau is his alleged hostility to intermediate associations. Rousseau's concern with the development and maintenance of morality and patriotism is reflected again in his attitude toward religion. Rousseau expresses the highest admiration for these associations and emphasizes their value in increasing civic-mindedness and ensuring good government. Rousseau recognizes the value of voluntary associations for purposes of amusement and recreation. Rousseau knows that in real life the ideal can only be imperfectly achieved and that progress toward it depends upon pre-existing social conditions. Rousseau views politics as a struggle between particular, or, as we should say, special interests on the one hand, and the general interest on the other.
