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Analyse the concept of freedom for Rousseau and Aristotle. What are the similarities and differences? The search for the best way in which to establish and maintain society is a difficult and as yet unsolved problem. In this search it is essential that the notion of freedom be understood, in both theory and practice. In comparing and contrasting two important philosophers, Rousseau and Aristotle, one can see some differences and similarities in the ways in which the issue of freedom has been addressed. There are three components of freedom that will be looked at here in regards to the ideas of Rousseau and Aristotle concerning freedom; the conditions required for freedom, the nature of the resulting freedom and who it is that possesses freedom. Whilst this does not cover every aspect of the notion of freedom, it covers some important issues from which we can learn a great deal. An interesting area concerning the concept of freedom as perceived by Aristotle and Rousseau is the situations in which freedom is argued to exist. Aristotle argues that freedom for man can only occur in one situation, that is, when he is a part of society