Understand, I’ve never actually read Rousseau, but his reputation is that of having established the meme of the “noble savage” - and wouldn’t Africa have been a wonderful place to look for savages who think differently than Europeans?That seemed to perhaps relate to this article, and I kind of thought you might take an interest in it. That any comment you might have on it could be of interest.
I’ve only read a little bit of Rousseau(what I saw, I did not like) but those thoughts on “noble savage” are not something I was aware of.
As far as 1619 goes, I think the NY Times jumped the shark. Ever since they published it they have been the recipient of consistent criticism and controversy. I look at 1619 as an opportunity and I know I’m really alone in that.
Elevating some works from the 1800’s would only amplify the problem the Times face, something I am more than happy to do. They need more problems, and their existing problems need to be made bigger. Unfortunately I can’t move any faster than I am, but I am pushing the ball forward on this.
The creation of the audio of the Original Draft of the Declaration was also a part of this effort.
A dedicated team of activist citizen historians could advance on the Times much quicker.