Which did Rousseau believe was better a government freely formed by the people on one imposed on a people by force?

Rousseau believed that a government freely formed by the people was far superior to one imposed by force. He argued that legitimate political authority arises from the collective will of the citizens, reflecting their general will and promoting the common good. In contrast, a government imposed by force undermines individual freedom and social cohesion, leading to oppression and conflict. For Rousseau, true democracy and civic engagement were essential for the development of a just and equitable society.