How did Rousseau view the state of humanity in its natural form?

Rousseau viewed humanity in its natural state as peaceful and inherently good. In his philosophical work, particularly in "The Social Contract" and "Discourse on the Origin and Basis of Inequality Among Men," he articulated a vision of human beings living in harmony with nature, marked by innocence and altruism. According to Rousseau, in this natural state, people are guided more by their basic instincts and compassion rather than by the corrupting influences of civilization, which he believed led to inequality, competition, and moral degradation.

He argued that societal structures and the development of property and societal hierarchies have led to significant moral corruption, pulling humans away from their natural goodness. Thus, in Rousseau's perspective, the idea of a peaceful and good humanity reflects his belief that the fundamental essence of people is positive, which is constricted by societal constructs rather than being inherently violent or chaotic, weak, or overly rational.