In "Discourse on the Origin and Foundations of Inequality Among Men," Rousseau explores the contrast between the "natural" and the "artificial" man, as constructed by society. This contradiction is denounced throughout his work. However, what the reader will notice most in this early text of Rousseau's is that he presents us with an ideal model of what a human being should be, and that he does not borrow this model from any previous form of society, not even from the "state of nature" itself.

Following in the footsteps of the ancient Greek philosophers, Rousseau creates models, offers ideals to imitate, and sets objective goals to achieve. With a logical approach, he supports his theory with solid arguments and demonstrates that humans should truly be born free and equal, and that inequality and oppression are consequences of the poor organization of society - perhaps only of the society of the 18th century?