What was Rousseau's perspective on human nature?

Rousseau's philosophy emphasized that humans, in their natural state, are inherently good and possess an innate innocence. He believed that people are born with a sense of compassion and morality but that these traits can be corrupted by the influences of society. Rousseau argued that the development of social structures, property, and organized government led to competition, inequality, and moral decay, watering down the purity of human nature. This perspective contrasts sharply with the views that suggest humans are born corrupt or evil, highlighting his belief in the fundamental goodness of humans when they are removed from societal corruption. Therefore, the notion that people in their natural state are good and innocent captures Rousseau's core ideas about human nature effectively.