Rousseau's Theory of Human Association Transparent and Opaque Communities [Hardcover]

The book explores the characteristic features and political consequences of social interaction when the parties' intentions are transparent, and when they are opaque. The author develops a theory of association and uses it to elucidate, assess and extend Rousseau's views of human nature, civil society, the market economy and the republican state.Introduction Transparency and Opacity in Nature, Society, and State Association and Civil Society in Transparent and Opaque Societies Opaque Traders and the Invisible Hand Transparency, Opacity, and Political Theory Conclusion

A rational-choice interpretation of Rousseau? And one that even people bored by rational-choice theory will want to read? That is the miracle Greg Hill has pulled off. Rousseau's Theory of Human Association is an engaging read and a challenge - not only to conventional interpretations of Rousseau - but to defenses of unfettered capitalism. Hill writes well and thinks hard, and the results will be worthwhile for anyone with an interest in Rousseau or in the nature of modern interpersonal relationships.

- Jeffrey Friedman, Editor, Critical Review

GREG HILL is a Strategic Advisor in the City of Seattle's Department of Finance, USA.