Why did Jean-Jacques Rousseau believe that civilization could corrupt people?

Jean-Jacques Rousseau famously argued that while humans are naturally good, they have been corrupted by the development of society and civilization. He did not view civilization as inherently evil, but rather believed it had taken a "wrong direction," becoming increasingly harmful as it grew more sophisticated.12

Rousseau’s critique centers on the transition from a solitary, "primitive" state of nature—where humans were healthy, happy, and free—to organized civil society. He identified several key factors in this corruption:13

• The Rise of Property: The introduction of private property necessitated laws and government to protect possessions, which primarily benefited the wealthy and institutionalized inequality.13
• Social Masks: As civilizations became complex, individuals began to prioritize appearances and social status over honesty and sincerity, leading to a divide between one's inner feelings and the "social mask" worn in public.45
• Development of Vices: Passions that generate vices, such as greed and vanity, were largely absent in the state of nature but emerged as soon as people formed societies and began comparing themselves to others.1

Ultimately, Rousseau argued that this process of "civilization" caused humans to become "de-natured," losing their original freedom and moral simplicity.15