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Rousseau and division of labor: from robinson to the economic agent

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  • Claire PIGNOL

Abstract

Rousseau shares with neo-classical theory a characterization of the economic agent, as a producer, based on the figure of Robinson. But whereas neo-classical economy expresses, through Robinson, the rational behavior of any economic agent, Rousseau considers on the contrary that the individual inserted in division of labor risks, unfortunately, to divert from Robinson behavior. For him, division of labor does not add a coordination problem to the problem of individual choice; it corrupts the agent's judgment and desires. A "good" division of labor would be one in which the agent would find again Robinson's judgment and independence. It is not feasible.

Suggested Citation

  • Claire PIGNOL, 2007. "Rousseau and division of labor: from robinson to the economic agent," Cahiers d’économie politique / Papers in Political Economy, L'Harmattan, issue 53, pages 55-72.
    • Handle: RePEc:cpo:journl:y:2007:i:53:p:55-72
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    JEL classification:

    • B11 - Schools of Economic Thought and Methodology - - History of Economic Thought through 1925 - - - Preclassical (Ancient, Medieval, Mercantilist, Physiocratic)
    • B31 - Schools of Economic Thought and Methodology - - History of Economic Thought: Individuals - - - Individuals
    • D11 - Microeconomics - - Household Behavior - - - Consumer Economics: Theory
    • D60 - Microeconomics - - Welfare Economics - - - General

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