Jean-Jacques Rousseau argued that humans are inherently good in their natural state but become corrupted by society’s influences, leading to selfish behavior.

Rousseau affirmed that, in their natural state, humans prioritize the common good over selfish interest, thus fostering harmony and social cohesion.

Rousseau distinguishes between natural self-love and artificial self-love. The first one is the instinctual desire for self-preservation. The second, however, arises from social comparisons and competition, leading to envy, greed, and conflict. 

For instance, he mentioned that the rise of private property and societal inequalities exacerbates artificial self-love, creating division and conflicts within society.

In Rousseau’s view, overcoming selfishness requires restructuring society to promote equality and solidarity , allowing individuals to fulfill their natural potential and live virtuous lives in harmony with others.