Rousseau on the Education of Girls

 Jean-Jacques Rousseau was a Swiss philosopher during the 18th century, and heavily inspired the French Revolution. Even though he viewed men and women equal, Rousseau believed that women needed to be subordinate to men. Rousseau thought that education should focus on the development of moral traits, instead of facts and figures. The traits that women should obtain are the abilities to attract and keep husbands, manage the household and obey authority. For the 18th century, I believe that  his so-called "prescriptions of education" was based on the social constructs of how women should behave. During this time period, women depended on men for basic necessities, such as shelter and food.  A majority of women did not have jobs or earn money; therefore, they worked in the house and took care of the family, while the men were earning money. Rousseau's ideals for women's education aligns with gender roles during this time. 

Today, Rousseau's philosophy of education for males and females would not be acceptable. Since women can work, be independent and rely on themselves, women should have equal education to men. He believed that boys should be aware of what points they are trying to make and be able to explain their ideas. On the other hand, he thought that women should be acquainted with being interpreted. I think that women are still being interpreted today, but I also feel that women should be trained to express their ideas, just like men. In the 21st century, women should have equal opportunities and the same expectations of explaining their ideas. 

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