Naturalism
Naturalism is a philosophical ideology that considers matter to be the foundation and reality, and that the world, living beings, and humans are all made of it. Rousseau is generally cited as the primary proponent of this ideology. Although Rousseau strongly championed the slogan of naturalism, he was also influenced by idealistic philosophers like Plato. Therefore, Rousseau's naturalism appears to be built on a background of idealistic objectives. Brubaker believes that Rousseau was a romantic naturalist. We cannot call Rousseau a naturalist based on the interests and abilities of children, the provision of education away from bondage, and in natural settings. For, if Rousseau can be called a naturalist merely on the basis of his emphasis on children's natural interests and love for nature, then we must also include Plato in this category. Philosophers like Rusk and Donald Butler believe that Herbert Spencer was indeed a naturalist. Bacon and Comenius also appear to be associated with naturalist ideology. But the credit for taking naturalism to its peak can only be given to Spencer and Rousseau. Expressing his surprise about Rousseau, Robert Herbart wrote that it was surprising that a degenerate person like Rousseau could have such influence. Since Rousseau was a part of a corrupt society, his moral decline was natural. Thus, Rousseau made a universal statement about contemporary society: "Human institutions are a mass of contradictory elements and errors. And only by acting against the rules established by society will right action be possible." Rousseau's slogan, "Return to Nature," suggests that he wanted to take students away from corrupt society and into the natural canopy of the village.