Emile, Or On Education

The definitive translation of Rousseau’s Emile, a foundational text in the philosophy of education. Widely hailed as the most accessible and authoritative edition, this translation by Alan Bloom elevates Rousseau's work into a prescription for educating autonomous, responsible, and truly democratic human beings. Originally published in 1763, Emile explores Rousseau’s philosophy of education through a narrative of a tutor’s encounters with his pupil from infancy to adolescence, illustrating how to raise ideal citizens capable of thriving in a corrupt society. Bloom also provides an insightful introduction connecting the book’s themes to ongoing questions about teaching children, aiding readers in understanding how to apply Rousseau’s ideas about human nature.