Describe what the sovereign power is to Rousseau?

Answer 1

In Rousseau's philosophy, sovereign power represents the collective will of the people, often referred to as the "general will." It is the legitimate authority that arises from the social contract, where individuals come together to form a political community, prioritizing the common good over individual interests. Sovereign power is not held by any single individual but is exercised collectively by the citizens, ensuring that laws and governance reflect the shared values and desires of the populace. Thus, true sovereignty lies in the participation and consent of the governed.