ルソー (Rousseau) was an influential philosopher from the 18th century, known for his ideas on education, politics, and human nature. Born in Geneva in 1712, he contributed significantly to the Enlightenment movement, advocating for the concept of the "noble savage," which suggested that humans are inherently good but corrupted by society. His most famous works include The Social Contract and Emile, or On Education. In these texts, Rousseau explored the relationship between individuals and the state, emphasizing the importance of freedom and equality. His thoughts laid the groundwork for modern democratic theory and continue to impact political philosophy today.