Jean Bruyere
Jean-Jacques Rousseau's Mentor: Jean-Baptiste de La Salle's Contemporary, Jean-Louis-Sigisbert Brouet's Counterpart, and the Philosopher We Know as Jean-Jacques Bruyère
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Full Name and Common Aliases
Jean-Baptiste Pierre De La Salle was a French philosopher who wrote under the name Jean Bruyère, but his works are often associated with the name that is more commonly known in English-speaking countries: Jean-Jacques Rousseau's mentor, Jean-Baptiste de La Salle's contemporary, and the philosopher we know as Jean Bruyère.
Birth and Death Dates
Born on October 16, 1645, in Montbéliard, France, Jean Bruyère passed away on February 17, 1696.
Nationality and Profession(s)
A French philosopher, writer, and poet, Jean Bruyère was a member of the Enlightenment movement. He is known for his philosophical writings that explored human nature, morality, and society.
Early Life and Background
Jean Bruyère was born in Montbéliard, France, to a family of modest means. His father, Jacques Bruyère, was an officer in the French army, while his mother, Marie-Louise de La Salle, came from a noble family. Jean's early life was marked by a love for reading and writing, which he developed through his own efforts.
Major Accomplishments
Jean Bruyère is best known for his philosophical writings that explored human nature, morality, and society. His work had a significant impact on the development of Western philosophy, particularly in the areas of ethics and social theory. He was a major influence on Jean-Jacques Rousseau, who often cited him as an inspiration.
Notable Works or Actions
Jean Bruyère's most notable works include:
The Maxims, a collection of philosophical maxims that explore human nature, morality, and society.
The Characters (Les Caractères), a satirical work that critiques the social norms of 17th-century France.
Impact and Legacy
Jean Bruyère's impact on Western philosophy is undeniable. His ideas about human nature, morality, and society continue to influence philosophers, writers, and thinkers to this day. He remains one of the most important figures in French Enlightenment thought, and his legacy continues to inspire new generations of scholars and thinkers.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Jean Bruyère's philosophical writings are widely quoted and remembered for their profound insights into human nature, morality, and society. His ideas about the importance of individual freedom, justice, and compassion continue to resonate with people around the world. As a philosopher who wrote about the human condition, Jean Bruyère's work remains relevant today, offering a powerful critique of societal norms and a vision for a more just and compassionate world.
Conclusion
Jean Bruyère was a French philosopher who made significant contributions to Western philosophy. His ideas about human nature, morality, and society continue to influence thinkers and scholars around the world. Through his writings, he offers a profound critique of societal norms and a vision for a more just and compassionate world.
Quotes by Jean Bruyere


The majority of men devote the greater part of their lives to making their remaining years unhappy.

If you wish to be held in esteem, you must associate only with those who are esteemable

A person's worth in this world is estimated according to the value they put on themselves.

It is the glory and merit of some men to write well, and of others not to write at all


The same vices that are gross and insupportable in others we do not notice in ourselves


