Jean-Jacques Rousseau Quotes
The only moral lesson which is suited for a child--the most important lesson for every time of life--is this: 'Never hurt anybody.
Rousseau, Jean-Jacques. Emile. Translated by Barbara Foxley, J.M. Dent & Sons, 1911.
This appears to be the first formal codification of the Golden Rule into law.
This is one of the earliest versions of the Golden Rule. Mytilene had been at war with Athens. Pittacus suggested that instead of the armies fighting, the war should be decided by a battle between him and the Athenian General who accepted. Pittacus won and was the Ruler of Athens, where he became quite popular. He wrote all his laws and decrees in poetry. He resigned after 10 years. He was considered one of the 7 great Greek Sages.
Jean-Jacques Rousseau was a Genevan philosopher, writer, and composer. His political philosophy influenced the progress of the Enlightenment throughout Europe, as well as aspects of the French Revolution and the development of modern political, economic and educational thought.